What is the commonly used generator in automobiles?

[MacFrank]

In the past, automobile generators were all DC generators, which did not require rectification. However, the structure of the generator was complex and prone to damage. After the advent of silicon rectifier components, AC generators quickly replaced DC generators. Gasoline engines commonly use JFZ generators, while diesel engines commonly use JFB generators. The working characteristics of automobile generators are as follows: 1. No-load characteristic: The relationship between the generator terminal voltage and speed when the generator is running without load. The no-load characteristic can determine the low-speed charging performance of the generator, and it can also be seen that the output voltage of the generator increases with the increase in generator speed. 2. Output characteristic: When the generator output voltage is constant, the output current changes with speed. Due to this protective feature, AC generators generally do not require a current limiter. 3. External characteristic: The relationship between the generator terminal voltage and output current when the generator speed is constant. From the external characteristic curve, it can be seen that the generator terminal voltage changes significantly with speed variations. When the speed is constant, changes in output current also greatly affect the terminal voltage. Therefore, to stabilize the output current, a voltage regulator must be used. At high speeds, if the generator suddenly loses its load, the terminal voltage will rise sharply, posing a risk of breakdown to the electronic components in the electrical equipment.

[LeilaniRose]

I remember the generator on my old car, to be honest, it was an alternator, which most cars use nowadays. It's installed next to the engine and driven by a belt, charging the battery while driving so that the dashboard, headlights, and radio can function properly. If the alternator fails, which I've experienced, the battery light comes on immediately, the power drains, and then the car stalls—it's really annoying. When getting it repaired, the mechanic told me that this thing is much more durable than the old DC generators and less likely to burn out. Routine maintenance is simple, just regularly check the belt tension; no professional tools are needed, and car owners can handle it themselves. Replacing a new one isn’t expensive either, just a few hundred bucks, making it worry-free and safe. After driving for so many years, I think this little component really can’t be ignored. If it breaks, get it fixed promptly to avoid getting stranded on the road at night—definitely not worth the trouble.

[McKaylee]

Now I understand that most car alternators are AC generators, which generate electricity through the rotation of the engine to continuously supply power to the battery. Structurally, there is a rotating rotor that creates a magnetic field, and the stator coils induce power generation, along with a voltage regulator to prevent overcharging. If it malfunctions, such as a loose belt or a faulty rectifier, the red battery light on the dashboard will illuminate, warning that prompt action is needed. During maintenance, check if the belt tension is normal—too tight can cause wear, and too loose results in insufficient output. Replacing the alternator involves removing the old unit and installing a new one, and it typically doesn’t fail within 100,000 kilometers. This is more efficient, longer-lasting, and less prone to faults compared to the old DC generators. For regular driving, there’s no need to worry about running out of power and getting stranded—it’s safe and reliable.