Diode bridge
Rectification diodes are used to make DC from AC. It is possible to do only 'half wave rectification' using 1 diode. When 4 diodes are combined, 'full wave rectification' occurrs.
Devices that combine 4 diodes in one package are called diode bridges. They are used for full-wave rectification.
The photograph on the left shows two examples of diode bridges.
The cylindrical device on the right in the photograph has a current limit of 1A. Physically, it is 7 mm high, and 10 mm in diameter.
The flat device on the left has a current limit of 4A. It is has a thickness of 6 mm, is 16 mm in height, and 19 mm in width.
The photograph on the right shows a large, high-power diode bridge.
It has a current capacity of 15A. The peak reverse-bias voltage is 400V.
Diode bridges with large current capacities like this one, require a heat sink. Typically, they are screwed to a piece of metal, or the chasis of device in which they are used. The heat sink allows the device to radiate excess heat.
As for size, this one is 26 mm wide on each side, and the height of the module part is 10 mm.
