High-power, high-current, diode rectifiers

In the 20 years since reliable semiconductor diodes of adequate power-handling capacity became available, the most noticeable change has been the increased current-carrying capacity of power rectifiers. In 1958, a unit capable of delivering 10 kA at 500 V was noteworthy, while, in 1977, chemical engineers take for granted a unit rated at 100 kA 500 V