Transformers

Transformers

A transformer is an electrical device used to change the value of an alternating voltage. Transformers are widely used in electrical work. They are encountered daily, in industrial, Commercial and domestic situations. They vary in size from miniature units used in electronics to huge units used in power stations. The efficient transmission and distribution of electricity throughout the country would be impossible without the use of power transformers.

Transformers are also used for safety reasons on construction sites when using power tools and in domestic bathroom situations in shaver units. They are used in doorbell operation and also to power electronic equipment, battery chargers, televisions, computers, alarm systems, etc. Transformers vary considerably in construction, size and shape depending on their application. All transformers rely on the principle of mutual inductance for their operation.

Transformer Symbols:

Transformer Symbols

Transformer Construction: A transformer consists of two coils of wire called windings, which are wound onto a common iron core. The wire used in the two windings, primary and secondary, is coated with an insulating varnish. Both coils are wound onto, but insulated from the iron core.

Transformer Construction

Transformer Construction

Transformer Principle: Transformers Principle When a conductor or coil is moved in a stationary magnetic field it cuts the lines of magnetic flux and an EMF is induced in the conductor or coil. This same principle also applies when a conductor is held stationary and the magnetic flux is made to change or vary.

Now consider an alternating current applied to a stationary coil. A magnetic field will build up and collapse in the coil, continually rising and falling in harmony with the applied AC current as shown in figure below.

Transformer Principle

If a second coil (coil 2) is placed close to the first coil (coil 1) the alternating magnetic flux in coil 1 links with coil 2. See Figure 4. This results in an EMF being induced in coil 2. This is a process known as mutual induction.

Transformer Principle

If coil 1 and coil 2 are mounted on an iron core the magnetic flux around both coils will be concentrated. This arrangement of coils and an iron core form the complete device known as a transformer. As shown in figure below.

Transformer Principle

The input coil of a transformer is fed from the AC supply and is called the primary winding. The output coil, to which the load is connected, is called the secondary winding. It is important to remember that there is no electrical connection between the primary winding and the secondary winding of a transformer. The only common link between the two windings is the magnetic field.