What is a rectifier diode, its characteristics, classification, and commonly used parameters

In electronics, rectification is the process of converting alternating current into direct current. In practical circuits, rectifier circuits are required to convert alternating current into direct current in order to supply power to electronic devices. The rectifier diode is a component used to convert alternating current into direct current. It is a semiconductor device typically made of silicon or silicon carbide. A rectifier diode is a bidirectional conductive device that can pass current through under forward voltage and prevent current from passing through under reverse voltage.

Characteristics of rectifier diodes

The characteristics of rectifier diodes mainly include forward voltage drop and reverse breakdown voltage.

Forward voltage drop refers to the voltage drop generated inside the rectifier diode under forward voltage, usually ranging from 0.5V to 0.7V. This is because when the PN junction of the rectifier diode is forward biased, electrons and holes will combine and release energy, causing the internal voltage of the rectifier diode to decrease.

Reverse breakdown voltage refers to the phenomenon of breakdown of rectifier diodes under reverse voltage, resulting in a large amount of current. The reverse breakdown voltage is the maximum withstand voltage of a rectifier diode, usually ranging from several hundred volts to several thousand volts.

Classification of rectifier diodes

Rectifiers can be classified based on their structure, operating mode, and maximum rated current.

1. Structural classification

Rectifiers can be divided into ordinary rectifier diodes and Schottky diodes based on their structure. A regular rectifier diode is a PN junction composed of a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor, while a Schottky diode is a PN junction composed of a metal and an N-type semiconductor.

2. Classification of working methods

Rectifiers can be divided into single-phase rectifier diodes and three-phase rectifier diodes according to their working mode. Single phase rectifier diodes are suitable for single-phase AC power supplies, while three-phase rectifier diodes are suitable for three-phase AC power supplies.

3. Classification of maximum rated current

Rectifiers can be divided into small signal rectifier diodes and high-power rectifier diodes based on their maximum rated current. Small signal rectifier diodes are suitable for circuits with low voltage and low current, while high-power rectifier diodes are suitable for circuits with high voltage and high current.

common parameters

The common parameters of rectifier diodes include rated voltage, maximum operating voltage, maximum rated current, reverse leakage current, and reverse breakdown voltage.

1. Rated voltage

The rated voltage refers to the maximum rated voltage of a rectifier diode under forward voltage, usually ranging from 0.5V to 0.7V.

2. Maximum operating voltage

The maximum operating voltage is the maximum voltage that a rectifier diode can withstand, usually ranging from tens of volts to several thousand volts.

3. Maximum rated current

The maximum rated current refers to the maximum current that a rectifier diode can withstand, usually ranging from a few hundred milliamps to several tens of amps.

4. Reverse leakage current

Reverse leakage current refers to the leakage current of a rectifier diode under reverse voltage, usually ranging from a few microamperes to a few milliamps.

5. Reverse breakdown voltage

The reverse breakdown voltage is the maximum withstand voltage of a rectifier diode, usually ranging from several hundred volts to several thousand volts.

In short, rectifier diodes are components used to convert alternating current into direct current, and their characteristics, classification, and commonly used parameters are of great significance for circuit design and component selection.