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What is a Transformer?




A transformer is a system formed by winding two coils on a suitable core, also called the core. Transformers consist of two parts. The first of these is the "Core" (magnetic part) and the second is the "Windings", also known as the primary (input) and secondary (output). One of these parts, the core, forms the magnetic part, which is the body of the transformer. Cores are made of silica sheets, insulated on one surface, and pressed with sheets of 0.30 - 0.50 mm thickness in order to prevent or reduce fuco-hysteresis losses.


What is a Transformer Used For?

The most basic answer to the question of what is a transformer used for? is that transformers are machines that are widely used in energy production and distribution. During the transmission of electrical energy from power plants to the area of ​​use, voltage drops can also be seen in addition to power loss on the lines. In order to minimize this situation, the power must be kept constant but the voltage must be increased. In other words, the situation of reducing the current is fixed. By reducing the current, the cross-sections of the conductors used in the lines are also reduced. With this reduction, losses are reduced and the cost of the conductor is reduced. One of the purposes of using a transformer is to reduce or increase the voltage or current.


Transformer Working Principle

The working principle of transformers consists of the transmission of electrical energy from one conductor to another by means of magnetic flux. The structure of a transformer, also known as a transformer, is in its simplest form two coils and a core. When a voltage is applied to one of the coils in the core, a magnetic flux is formed in the core. The direction and intensity of the resulting magnetic flux is constantly changing. This magnetic flux creates an effect that provides a voltage induction on the output coil. You can read this article for current transformer selection.


To briefly summarize the working principle of a transformer; the voltage applied to the first coil creates a magnetic field and energy is transferred to another coil. If the number of secondary windings in the transformer is greater than the number of primary windings, the output voltage is higher than the input voltage.


Basic Parts of Electrical Transformers

Core


The core of the transformer consists of iron plates that provide the transmission of magnetic flux. The core provides the magnetic connection between the primary and secondary windings. The material of the core is specially selected to minimize energy losses.


Primary and Secondary Windings


There are two windings in the transformer, primary and secondary. The primary winding receives the electrical energy entering the transformer and creates a magnetic field. The secondary winding outputs the voltage induced in the magnetic field.


Insulation Materials


High-quality insulation materials are used between the primary and secondary windings of the transformer, such as the core and the tank. In this way, safe and efficient operation is ensured.


Tank and Cooling System


All parts of the transformer are placed in a tank to protect against environmental effects. When the transformer heats up, the cooling system in the tank is activated and prevents overheating.


Other Parts


Transformers also have various auxiliaries such as load break switches, fuses, voltage adjustment taps, indicators and protection relays.


What are the Types of Transformers?

Transformer types are divided into types depending on their intended use, core type, working environment and number of phases.


1- According to Core Type:


– Core Type


– Mantel Type


– Distributed Type


2- According to the Purpose of Use


– Auto Transformer


– Insulation Transformer


– Step-Down Transformers


– Step-Up Transformers


– Instrument Transformers


3- According to the Operating Environment


4- According to the Number of Phases


– Single Phase Transformers


– Multiphase Transformers

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