Engine Electrical Systems Flashcards
What device is used to convert alternating current, which has been induced into the loops of the rotating armature of a DC generator, to direct current?
A commutator.
A certain direct current series motor mounted within an aircraft draws more amperes during start than when it is running under its rated load. The most logical conclusion that may be drawn is what?
The condition is normal for this type of motor.
The stationary field strength in a direct current generator is varied…
according to the load requirements.
What type of electric motor is generally used with a direct-cranking engine starter?
Direct current series-wound motor.
Upon what does the output frequency of an AC generator (alternator) depend?
The speed of rotation and the number of field poles.
A high surge of current is required when a DC electric motor is first started. As the speed of the motor increases,…
the counter EMF builds up and opposes the applied EMF, thus reducing the current flow through the armature.
Alternators (AC generators) that are driven by a constant-speed drive (CSD) mechanism are used to regulate the alternator to a constant what?
Hertz output (constant frequency).
What is used to polish commutators or slip rings?
Double-zero sandpaper.
If a generator is malfunctioning, its voltage can be reduced to residual by actuating the what?
Generator master switch.
If the points in a vibrator-type voltage regulator stick in the closed position while the generator is operating, what will be the probable result?
Generator output voltage will increase.
Why is a constant-speed drive used to control the speed of some aircraft engine-driven generators?
So that the frequency of the alternating current output will remain constant.
According to the electron theory of the flow of electricity, when a properly functioning DC alternator and voltage regulating system is charging an aircraft’s battery, the direction of current flow through the battery…
is into the negative terminal and out the positive terminal.
Aircraft that operate more than one generator connected to a common electrical system must be provided with what?
Individual generator switches that can be operated from the cockpit during flight
The most effective method of regulating aircraft direct current generator output is to vary, according to the load requirements, the what?
Strength of the stationary field.
Electric motors are often classified according to the method of connecting the field coils and armature. Aircraft engine starter motors are generally of which type?
Series.
As the generator load is increased (within its rated capacity), the voltage will what?
Remain constant and the amperage output will increase.
As the flux density in the field of a DC generator increases and the current flow to the system increases, the…
force required to turn the generator increases.
What is the purpose of a reverse-current cutout relay?
It opens the main generator circuit whenever the generator voltage drops below the battery voltage.
Generator voltage will not build up when the field is flashed and solder is found on the brush cover plate. These are most likely indications of what?
An open armature.
Why is it unnecessary to flash the field of the exciter on a brushless alternator?
Permanent magnets are installed in the main field poles.
One way that the automatic ignition relight systems are activated on gas turbine engines is by a what?
Drop in compressor discharge pressure.
How are the rotor windings of an aircraft alternator usually excited?
By a variable direct current.
What precaution is usually taken to prevent electrolyte from freezing in a lead-acid battery?
Keep the battery fully charged.
What is the ampere-hour rating of a storage battery that is designed to deliver 45 amperes for 2.5 hours?
112.5 ampere-hour.
How many hours will a 140 ampere-hour battery deliver 15 amperes?
9.33 hours.
What is basic advantage of using AC for electrical power for a large aircraft?
AC systems operate at higher voltage than DC systems and therefore use less current and can use smaller and lighter weight wiring.
What are two types of AC motors that are used to produce a relatively high torque?
Three-phase induction and capacitor start.
(1) Alternators are rated in volt-amps, which is a measure of the apparent power being produced by the generator.
(2) Alternating current has the advantage over direct current in that its voltage and current can easily be stepped up or down.
Both 1 and 2 are true.