The transformer is defined in electrical engineering as a static machine, since only electrons move in it and there are no moving parts. This serves to transform the input voltage and current intensity into a different output voltage and intensity, while keeping the electrical power constant. It is a machine that works in alternating current and is mainly used for the transport of electricity, in its path from power plants to users, whether they are domestic or industrial.
Transformers perform an important function as they allow the transport and distribution of electrical energy at the voltage values that are most convenient from an economic and technical point of view.
How an electrical transformer is made
In its simplest version, the transformer has two electrical circuits isolated from each other:
- The first, entrance, which receives the energy;
- The second, at the output, which delivers the energy it has received from the primary circuit.
Unless there is any leakage or leakage, the power between the current input and output is constant. It is a reversible machine since the two circuits can be reversed, making the input circuit work as an output circuit or vice versa.
In addition to the circuits, there is an iron core in the transformer, which is formed by overlapping and insulated sheets from each other. On the two sides of the core are wound the two circuits, which are made of conductive metallic material.
If one of the two circuits is powered with alternating voltage, an alternating magnetic flux will develop in the central core, the amplitude of which varies according to the voltage of the power supply, the frequency and the number of turns it has.
How does a transformer work?
The primary circuit of the transformer is connected to the mains electricity supply, while the secondary one supplies the output energy. Through the central core, or generator, the primary circuit induces a magnetic field that reaches the secondary circuit. In a well-built transformer, the weight of the two circuits will be equivalent: the primary circuit will have thinner and more numerous wires, while the secondary one will have larger and fewer wires.
If the output voltage is lower than the input voltage, the transformer will act as a reducer.
What types of transformers exist?
There are different types of transformers in use, placed at different points of the transmission and distribution of electrical circuits. Let's see the most popular.
Voltage transformer
This is the classic transformer, which we have previously described. The current voltage of the secondary circuit is constant and depends on the number of turns of the winding. The windings can also have intermediate taps or additional secondary windings, which give the possibility of having different voltage values at the same time.
Isolation transformer
These are transformers in which the electrical insulation between the windings is very accurate. The main objective of these devices is to separate the mass of a measuring device from the ground of the circuit, in the event that both are earthed. They are used in cases where medical devices to be kept safe are connected to the network or in all cases in which it is not possible to use a traditional type of grounding (eg street vendors).
Three-phase transformer
Three-phase transformers are machines that convert a three-phase voltage and are usually used in the electrical distribution network. They can have three independent single-phase transformers or three primary windings and three secondary windings, mounted on a core with three parallel branches.
Current transformation
These are transformers that supply the secondary circuit with a current that is proportional to the current present in the primary circuit. They are generally used to reduce high current flows to values that can be measured more easily.
High Voltage Instrument Transformers Manufacturers in Vadodara