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== Transformer ==
== Transformer ==


A '''transformer''' is an electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. Transformers are used to increase or decrease the alternating voltages in electric power applications.
A '''transformer''' is a passive electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. Transformers are used to increase or decrease the alternating voltages in electric power applications.
 
[[File:Philips_N4422_-_power_supply_transformer-2098.jpg|Power supply transformer|thumb|right]]
 
== Basic Principles ==


== History ==
Transformers operate on the principle of [[Faraday's law of induction]], which states that a change in the magnetic field within a closed loop induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the wire. A transformer consists of two or more wire coils called windings, which are wound around a common core. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it creates a varying magnetic field in the core, which induces a voltage in the secondary winding.


The principle of the transformer was discovered in the early 19th century by [[Michael Faraday]], who demonstrated electromagnetic induction. The first practical transformer ]]) further developed the transformer into a commercially viable product.
[[File:Transformer_Iron_Core.svg|Iron core of a transformer|thumb|left]]


== Operation ==
=== Core ===


Transformers operate on the principle of [[Faraday's law of induction]], which states that a change in magnetic flux in a coil of wire will induce an electromotive force (EMF) in the coil. A transformer consists of two or more coils of wire, known as windings, wrapped around a common core. When an alternating current flows through the primary winding, it creates a varying magnetic field that induces a voltage in the secondary winding.
The core of a transformer is typically made of laminated [[silicon steel]] to reduce [[eddy current]] losses. The core provides a low reluctance path for the magnetic flux, which is essential for efficient operation.


== Types of Transformers ==
== Types of Transformers ==
Transformers can be classified into several types based on their construction, application, and function.


=== Power Transformers ===
=== Power Transformers ===
Power transformers are used in transmission networks to step up or step down voltage levels. They are designed to operate at high efficiency and are typically used in substations.
 
Power transformers are used in transmission networks to step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage levels. They are designed to operate at high efficiency and are typically used in power generation and distribution systems.


=== Distribution Transformers ===
=== Distribution Transformers ===
Distribution transformers are used to provide the final voltage transformation in the electric power distribution system, stepping down the voltage used in the distribution lines to the level used by the customer.
Distribution transformers are used to provide the final voltage transformation in the electric power distribution system, stepping down the voltage used in the distribution lines to the level used by the customer.


=== Instrument Transformers ===
=== Instrument Transformers ===
Instrument transformers are used to measure high voltages and currents in power systems. They include current transformers (CTs) and voltage transformers (VTs).


=== Isolation Transformers ===
[[File:Instrument_Transformer_LV_terminals.jpg|Instrument transformer terminals|thumb|right]]
Isolation transformers are used to decouple two circuits, allowing AC power to be taken from one device and fed into another without electrically connecting the two circuits.


== Construction ==
Instrument transformers are used to measure high voltages and currents in power systems. They include current transformers (CTs) and voltage transformers (VTs), which provide a scaled-down replica of the current or voltage for measurement and protection purposes.


Transformers are constructed with a core made of laminated silicon steel to reduce energy losses due to eddy currents. The windings are made of copper or aluminum wire and are insulated to prevent short circuits.
== Operation Under Load ==


== Applications ==
[[File:Transformer_under_load_(alternative_version).svg|Transformer under load|thumb|left]]


Transformers are used in a wide range of applications, from small transformers in electronic devices to large transformers in power grids. They are essential for the transmission and distribution of electrical energy.
When a transformer is under load, the secondary winding delivers power to the load, and the primary winding draws power from the source. The efficiency of a transformer is determined by the ratio of the output power to the input power.


== Related Pages ==
== Equivalent Circuit ==
* [[Electromagnetic induction]]
* [[Electric power transmission]]
* [[Voltage regulation]]
 
== References ==
* "Transformer." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, last visited October 2023.


== Gallery ==
[[File:Transformer_equivalent_circuit.svg|Equivalent circuit of a transformer|thumb|right]]
<gallery>
File:Philips_N4422_-_power_supply_transformer-2098.jpg|Power supply transformer
File:Transformer_Iron_Core.svg|Iron core of a transformer
File:Transformer_under_load_(alternative_version).svg|Transformer under load
File:Transformer3d_col3.svg|3D model of a transformer
File:Transformer_Flux.svg|Magnetic flux in a transformer
File:Transformer_equivalent_circuit.svg|Equivalent circuit of a transformer
File:Instrument_Transformer_LV_terminals.jpg|Instrument transformer terminals
File:Power_Transformer_Over-Excitation.gif|Over-excitation in a power transformer
File:Transformer_winding_formats.jpg|Different winding formats
File:Transformer.filament.agr.jpg|Filament transformer
File:EI-transformer_core_interleaved_with_flux_paths.png|EI transformer core
|Laminated core
File:Small_toroidal_transformer.jpg|Small toroidal transformer
File:Transformer-hightolow_smaller.jpg|High to low voltage transformer
File:transformer_min_stray_field_geometry.svg|Minimized stray field geometry
File:Drehstromtransformater_im_Schnitt_Hochspannung.jpg|Three-phase transformer
File:Substation_transfomer.jpg|Substation transformer
File:Melbourne_Terminal_Station.JPG|Melbourne terminal station
File:Camoflaged_Transformer_Langley_City.jpg|Camouflaged transformer
File:Transformer-Limestone-Generating-Station.JPG|Limestone generating station transformer
File:Vermogentransformator_1.GIF|Power transformer
File:Induction_experiment.png|Induction experiment
File:Induktionsapparat_hg.jpg|Induction apparatus
File:Faradays_transformer.png|Faraday's transformer
File:Trafo1885.jpg|1885 transformer
File:DBZ_trafo.jpg|DBZ transformer
File:ZBD_team.jpg|ZBD team
File:StanleyTransformer.png|Stanley transformer
File:Blachy_transformatorowe.jpg|Transformer sheets
</gallery>


[[Category:Electrical engineering]]
The equivalent circuit of a transformer is a simplified representation that models the electrical characteristics of the transformer, including the winding resistances, leakage reactances, and core losses.
[[Category:Electromagnetic devices]]
<gallery>
File:Philips_N4422_-_power_supply_transformer-2098.jpg|Transformer
File:Transformer_Iron_Core.svg|Transformer
File:Transformer_under_load_(alternative_version).svg|Transformer
File:Transformer3d_col3.svg|Transformer
File:Transformer_Flux.svg|Transformer
File:Transformer_equivalent_circuit.svg|Transformer
File:Instrument_Transformer_LV_terminals.jpg|Transformer
File:Power_Transformer_Over-Excitation.gif|Transformer
File:Transformer_winding_formats.jpg|Transformer
File:Transformer.filament.agr.jpg|Transformer
File:EI-transformer_core_interleaved_with_flux_paths.png|Transformer
File:Laminering_av_kärna.svg|Transformer
</gallery>
== Transformer ==


A '''transformer''' is a passive electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. Transformers are used to increase or decrease the alternating voltages in electric power applications.
== Magnetic Flux ==


== Principle of Operation ==
[[File:Transformer_Flux.svg|Magnetic flux in a transformer|thumb|left]]


Transformers operate on the principle of [[Faraday's law of induction]], which states that a change in magnetic flux can induce an electromotive force (EMF) in a coil. A transformer consists of two or more coils of wire, known as windings, which are wound around a common core. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it creates a varying magnetic field in the core, which induces a voltage in the secondary winding.
The magnetic flux in a transformer is confined to the core and is responsible for the induction of voltage in the windings. The flux linkage between the primary and secondary windings is crucial for the transformer's operation.


== Construction ==
== Over-Excitation ==


Transformers are typically constructed with a laminated steel core to minimize [[eddy current]] losses. The windings are made of copper or aluminum wire and are insulated to prevent short circuits. The primary and secondary windings can be arranged in different configurations, such as step-up or step-down, depending on the desired voltage transformation.
[[File:Power_Transformer_Over-Excitation.gif|Over-excitation in a power transformer|thumb|right]]


=== Core Types ===
Over-excitation occurs when the voltage applied to the transformer exceeds its rated voltage, causing excessive magnetic flux in the core. This can lead to overheating and damage to the transformer.


* '''Laminated Core''': Used in most transformers to reduce eddy current losses.
== 3D Model ==
* '''Toroidal Core''': Offers improved efficiency and reduced electromagnetic interference.
* '''Air Core''': Used in high-frequency applications where core losses are significant.


== Types of Transformers ==
[[File:Transformer3d_col3.svg|3D model of a transformer|thumb|left]]


Transformers can be classified based on their application, construction, and function.
A 3D model of a transformer provides a visual representation of its components, including the core, windings, and terminals.
 
=== Power Transformers ===
 
Power transformers are used in [[electric power transmission]] and distribution systems to step up or step down voltage levels. They are designed to operate at high efficiency and are typically used in substations.
 
=== Distribution Transformers ===
 
Distribution transformers are used to provide the final voltage transformation in the electric power distribution system, stepping down the voltage used in the distribution lines to the level used by the customer.
 
=== Isolation Transformers ===
 
Isolation transformers are used to decouple two circuits, allowing AC power to be taken from one device and fed into another without electrically connecting the two circuits.
 
=== Instrument Transformers ===
 
Instrument transformers are used to measure high voltages and currents in power systems. They include [[current transformer]]s and [[voltage transformer]]s.
 
== Applications ==
 
Transformers are essential components in the transmission and distribution of electrical energy. They are used in a variety of applications, including:
 
* [[Power generation]] and distribution
* [[Audio transformer]]s in audio equipment
* [[Pulse transformer]]s in digital circuits
* [[Switch-mode power supply]]s


== Related Pages ==
== Related Pages ==


* [[Electromagnetic induction]]
* [[Electromagnetic induction]]
* [[Electric power transmission]]
* [[Electric power distribution]]
* [[Current transformer]]
* [[Voltage regulation]]
* [[Voltage transformer]]
* [[Electrical engineering]]
 
{{Electricity}}
{{Electronics}}


[[Category:Electrical components]]
[[Category:Electrical components]]
[[Category:Electromagnetic devices]]
[[Category:Electromagnetic devices]]

Latest revision as of 11:32, 23 March 2025

Transformer[edit]

A transformer is a passive electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. Transformers are used to increase or decrease the alternating voltages in electric power applications.

Power supply transformer

Basic Principles[edit]

Transformers operate on the principle of Faraday's law of induction, which states that a change in the magnetic field within a closed loop induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the wire. A transformer consists of two or more wire coils called windings, which are wound around a common core. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it creates a varying magnetic field in the core, which induces a voltage in the secondary winding.

Iron core of a transformer

Core[edit]

The core of a transformer is typically made of laminated silicon steel to reduce eddy current losses. The core provides a low reluctance path for the magnetic flux, which is essential for efficient operation.

Types of Transformers[edit]

Transformers can be classified into several types based on their construction, application, and function.

Power Transformers[edit]

Power transformers are used in transmission networks to step up (increase) or step down (decrease) the voltage levels. They are designed to operate at high efficiency and are typically used in power generation and distribution systems.

Distribution Transformers[edit]

Distribution transformers are used to provide the final voltage transformation in the electric power distribution system, stepping down the voltage used in the distribution lines to the level used by the customer.

Instrument Transformers[edit]

Instrument transformer terminals

Instrument transformers are used to measure high voltages and currents in power systems. They include current transformers (CTs) and voltage transformers (VTs), which provide a scaled-down replica of the current or voltage for measurement and protection purposes.

Operation Under Load[edit]

Transformer under load

When a transformer is under load, the secondary winding delivers power to the load, and the primary winding draws power from the source. The efficiency of a transformer is determined by the ratio of the output power to the input power.

Equivalent Circuit[edit]

Equivalent circuit of a transformer

The equivalent circuit of a transformer is a simplified representation that models the electrical characteristics of the transformer, including the winding resistances, leakage reactances, and core losses.

Magnetic Flux[edit]

Magnetic flux in a transformer

The magnetic flux in a transformer is confined to the core and is responsible for the induction of voltage in the windings. The flux linkage between the primary and secondary windings is crucial for the transformer's operation.

Over-Excitation[edit]

Over-excitation in a power transformer

Over-excitation occurs when the voltage applied to the transformer exceeds its rated voltage, causing excessive magnetic flux in the core. This can lead to overheating and damage to the transformer.

3D Model[edit]

3D model of a transformer

A 3D model of a transformer provides a visual representation of its components, including the core, windings, and terminals.

Related Pages[edit]