Re: OT: Bridge Rectifiers

[Jim Rojas <jrojas@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bob La Londe wrote:
> I am working retrofitting a control system (hobby stuff - (industrial
> hobby)) and I was considering reusing some of the components. One of the
> things is a 230-60V transformer that feeds into a modularized bridge
> rectifier to produce 84VDC under load. The transformer is fine, the caps
> (BIG caps) need to be tested, but I was wondering if the diodes in the
> rectifier have a predictable service life? I can make my own easily
> enough with a handful of heavy diodes, but I really like the neat
> packaging of this modular one. One less thing to have to bread board.
> This is NOT a low current application.
>
>

Predictable? No. As long as the rectifier is rated 25+ percent higher
than the actual load, you should expect a long life. High heat is what
kills them. So if your rectifier is rated at 100A, Try not to push
anymore than 75A through it. You can also put rectifiers in parallel.
Since they are sharing the same AC input, they are automatically in
phase. This will greatly reduce the heat generated.

Jim Rojas
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