What is a transformer, what it consists of and how it works

Transformer - is the main element of the whole energy system, which allows you to convert the voltage and thereby transfer energy to a considerable distance. In this article I will discuss how the transformer and how it works.

What is the transformer

To begin, let's find a definition. Transformer - is electromagnetic static product intended for transformation alternating electric current voltage and frequency of an electric current and voltage of the other same frequency.

Operation of absolutely any transformer is based on the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction.

What is needed transformer

Field of use of transformers is very wide. For example, they are directly involved with the transport of electricity over long distances.

The generators generate voltage rather low of 10 to 18 kilovolts, which can not pass over considerable distances (without significant loss in heating conductors). Therefore, beside generating capacities and set-up transformers, which increase the voltage to 110 kV, 220 kV, 500 kV, 750 kV and 1150 kV and even has a voltage it is possible to transfer with minimal loss of significant distance.

And near the ultimate consumer set-down transformers, these should convert higher voltage in the usual 380 V and 220 V.

Also power transformers as common current transformers, voltage transformers, pulse transformers.

How does a transformer

Transformers come in both single-phase performance, and multi-phase with one or more windings. To understand how it works, let's take the easiest option, namely, single-phase transformer.

Thus, the transformer is made of the following components: a metal core and two windings, which are galvanically isolated.

Winding, called primary, is connected to an AC power source, and the second coil (referred to as secondary) is connected directly to the load.

The generator connected to the primary winding current flows I1, this process generates a flow F, passing through the aforesaid windings and generates electromotive force.

If the load is not connected to the secondary housing, the transformer-like mode of operation is referred to as idle mode. If the consumer is connected, the secondary winding current begins to flow I2, is influenced by the induced electromotive force

And the magnitude of the EMF has a direct relationship to the number of turns in the windings.

Thus, by changing the number of turns in the windings of the transformer, voltage regulation takes place for the user on the secondary winding.

Energy losses in the transformer

Despite the high efficiency of the transformer, it is not considered ideal and it will certainly present losses, these should be expressed in the heating of the transformer.

Note. Reference considers the transformer, which lacks any loss, and it turns out that the capacity of the primary winding coincides with an output of the secondary winding.

Thus, in low-power transformers, heat losses and therefore low heat dissipatable performed by natural air convention. These transformers are also referred to as dry.

In those products where the blowing air is ineffective, applied with cooling transformer oil. Here the transformer is immersed in a dedicated tank filled with oil during operation and the heat from the transformer to the oil passes, which dissipates it through the outer casing. In this case as well in high-power transformers using forced air cooling, cooling with oil radiators.

conclusion

We have considered the simplest transformer, which allows us to understand the principle of operation of this product. If the article was interesting to you, you will appreciate her huskies and thank you for your attention!