Electrical

Rectifier Ripple Voltage Calculator

Estimate peak-to-peak reservoir-capacitor ripple from load current and recharge frequency.

Ideal component relationshipsUnits and assumptions explained below
Circuit workbench
Circuit workbench

Keep RMS, peak and DC values distinct.

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Your circuit result

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter dc load current, reservoir capacitance, recharge frequency.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Approximate ripple ΔV = I/(fC). Use twice mains frequency for a full-wave rectifier.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using dc load current = 1 A, reservoir capacitance = 2200 µF, recharge frequency = 100 Hz, the result is 4.54545455 V. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

Understanding your result

Small-ripple approximation with near-constant load current. Diode drop, conduction angle and transformer impedance are excluded.

What to keep in mind

Small-ripple approximation with near-constant load current. Diode drop, conduction angle and transformer impedance are excluded. Ideal-component calculation for study and estimation. It does not select safe wiring, protective devices or component ratings for an installation.

Common questions

How do I use this rectifier ripple voltage calculator?

Estimate peak-to-peak reservoir-capacitor ripple from load current and recharge frequency. Enter dc load current in A, reservoir capacitance in µF, recharge frequency in Hz. The starting example is editable; use values for the same system or project.

Which assumptions affect this result?

Small-ripple approximation with near-constant load current. Diode drop, conduction angle and transformer impedance are excluded.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.