1. Arrow Electrical System
Presented by Michelle Crocco

2. Overview Importance of knowing the electrical system Components
Alternator
Battery
Voltage Regulator
Overvoltage Relay
Ammeter
Circuit Breakers
Emergencies
Review

3. Importance
The Piper Arrow will be used during your commercial and flight instructor check ride
As PIC, it is important to know different components of your aircraft

4. Alternator Serves as the primary electrical source 14 volt, 60 amps
A rotating electromagnet connected to the crankshaft generates AC power
Rectifiers rectify AC to DC power
A small discharge from the battery is needed to excite the alternator

5. Battery Serves as the secondary source of power 12 volt, 35 amps Uses:
Used for engine start up
Back-up in case of alternator failure

6. Voltage Regulator Basic Definition:
it acts like a funnel only allowing so much current through the system and regulating the system voltage
Maintains the system voltage to volts
It is located on the left side of the firewall

7. Overvoltage Relay
Controls the alternator so it doesn’t put out too much voltage
Takes the alternator off if it exceeds 17 volts

8. Ammeter
Indicates the load (in amps) on the system

9. Circuit Breakers They protect individual electrical components
If a current flow is too high, the circuit trips and the circuit is opened.
This does not allow current to flow to the specific component.

10. Emergencies
Includes an annunciator panel with alternator, low oil pressure, and low vacuum indicator lights
Serves only as a warning to pilots
Follow the appropriate checklist

11. Review How many volts and amps is the alternator? The battery?
What does an voltage regulator act like?
What 3 indications are included in the annunciator panel?