since 1940

Paralleling Aircraft Alternators

Circuit Resistance and Impedance

In order for proper load sharing to occur both channels must be approximately the same impedance. If not the higher impedance channel's voltage regulator must raise voltage excessively to achieve load balance. This voltage rise is an indication that such a problem has occurred. Sometimes the higher impedance channel may be determined by precise measurement of the voltage drop when it is operated by itself and compared to the other side.

Good paralleling depends on balance. If substantial voltage rise is necessary to achieve equal load division the problem is usually a higher impedance across one of the channels. The ground return must also be included in this analysis.

Alternator Temperature

Alternator current is inversely proportional to temperature, output decreases as temperature increases. Alternators operating at different temperatures will output different amounts of current.

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