Mechanical rectifier

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A mechanical rectifier is a device for converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) by means of mechanically-operated switches. The best-known type is the commutator, which is an integral part of a DC dynamo but, before solid-state devices became available, independent mechanical rectifiers were used for certain applications.

[edit] Vibrator type

This was the reverse of a vibrator inverter. An electromagnet, fed with AC, caused a spring to vibrate and the spring operated change-over contacts which converted the AC to DC. This arrangement was only suitable for low-power applications, e.g. radios.

[edit] Motor-driven type

This operated on the same principle as the vibrator type but the change-over contacts were operated by a synchronous motor. It was suitable for high-power applications, e.g. electrolysis cells and electrostatic precipitators.