Alternators: power behind batteries

The alternator is an integral part of the electrical system for your engine. It continually recharges the battery while the engine is running, ensuring that it never loses power. The alternator also regulates the power going back into the battery so it doesn’t become overcharged.

Dependability is critical to you and we know that the efficiency of the starting and charging system is crucial to this.

Our genuine Perkins alternators are made using high quality internal components – including brushes and bearings. They’re designed and assembled to ensure longevity and keep your operating and owning costs down.

The alternator works with the battery to generate power for the electrical components of the engine and the equipment that runs off it. The name comes from the fact that it generates alternating current (AC) and its role is essentially to transfer the mechanical energy from the engine into electrical power.

Alternators: power behind batteries
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Alternators: power behind batteries

Alternators are driven by the crankshaft, which converts the up-and-down movement of the pistons into circular movement. Most alternators are mounted using brackets that bolt to a specific point on the engine. One of the brackets is usually a fixed point, while the other is adjustable to tighten the drive belt.

Alternators produce AC power through electromagnetism. The electricity is channelled into the battery, providing voltage to run the various electrical systems.

Alternators are relatively small and light components and usually feature an outer housing made of aluminium, which doesn’t become magnetised. Because they run at very high speeds, they have vents to help dissipate the heat they generate, meaning that they run efficiently and are specially selected to give you power when you need it most.

 

Fast facts

Perkins alternators:


  • Are made using high quality components
  • Ensure your engine starts and runs efficiently
  • Are backed by our extensive 12 month warranty

Preventive maintenance

Regular maintenance is the best way of ensuring your engine lasts as long as possible. There are regular checks that you should carry out in line with the recommended schedules to do this.

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Product offering

Using official Perkins repair products can considerably enhance the performance of your engine and extend its life. These parts are available to order quickly and easily from your local distributor.

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Genuine experience

Supporting your engines is a truly global undertaking. Both our main warehouse site locations in the UK and Singapore, were deliberately chosen to give as wide a reach across the world as possible.

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