What is an Ion?
- Unequal number of electrons and protons
Why are atoms electrically neutral?
Equal number of electrons and protons
Explain the term electric current. When does it occur? Name the unit of measurement.
- Ampere
Explain the term electric voltage. Name the unit of measurement
- Volt
What is electric power? Name the unit of measurement
- Watt
What is electric work? Name the unit of measurement
- Watt hour
What is an insulator or electric nonconductor? Give two examples
- Rubber, air
What is the special characteristic of an electric semiconductor? Give an example of device which use semiconductors.
What is an electric conductor? Give two examples
- Copper, aluminium
Describe the single-pole conductor configuration. What are the advantages of this configuration for aircraft design?
Every conductor has an ohmic resistance. It depends on:
Conductor length
Material
Temperature
Cross section
What is a galvanic element?
Two different metals (base or noble) with different electric potential in an electrolyte connected by a conductor.
Name two types of galvanic elements
Noble, base
E.g. Zinc and copper
Two identical batteries are connected in parallel. What happens?
The total voltage equals the voltage of one battery
What are the tasks of a rechargeable battery in an aircraft?
What may happen to a battery, if the charging current is too high?
- Electrolyte escapes
Define the term “capacity of batteries” and state the unit of measurement used?
How long can a battery supply a system with a load of 30A, if the capacity is 40Ah?
40/30 * 60 = 80min = 1h 20min
What is the nominal voltage of a battery commonly used in a helicopter?
24V (the generator = 28V)
Two identical batteries are connected in series. What happens?
The total voltage is twice of the battery voltage
Describe the working principle of a simple DC generator and name its main components.
A conductor loop is rotating in a magnetic field perpendicular to the magnetic flux lines- A voltage is induced and picked up by a commutator.
Commutator, loops, electromagnet (+exciting current)/permanent magnet
What is the purpose of a DC generator in an aircraft electrical system?
Supply electrical system with power and charges the battery during flight
Name three different types of DC generator excitation and their subgroups, if there are some.
Name three different types for the design of voltage regulators