Transformer: Definition, Working Principle, Types & Emf Equation

Transformer

A static electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction.

Electromagnetic Induction

The process by which a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) in a conductor.

Step Up Transformer

A transformer that increases the voltage from the primary winding to the secondary winding.

Step Down Transformer

A transformer that decreases the voltage from the primary winding to the secondary winding.

Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction

A law stating that a changing magnetic field within a closed loop induces an electromotive force (EMF).

Mutual Inductance

The principle that allows a change in current in one coil to induce a voltage in another coil.

Primary Winding

The coil connected to the input voltage in a transformer.

Secondary Winding

The coil in which the output voltage is induced.

Core

The central part of a transformer, made of soft iron or steel to minimize energy losses and guide the magnetic field.

Ideal Transformer

A hypothetical model of a transformer where there are no energy losses.

Copper Losses

Energy losses that occur due to the resistance in the windings of a transformer.

Iron Losses

Energy losses in the core of a transformer due to hysteresis and eddy currents.

Leakage Flux

Magnetic flux that does not fully couple with the secondary winding of a transformer.

Efficiency of a Transformer

The ratio of the power output to the power input, usually ranging from 95% to 98%.

Voltage Transformation Ratio

The relationship between the primary and secondary voltages in a transformer.

Autotransformer

A transformer with a single winding that acts as both the primary and secondary windings.

Isolation Transformer

A transformer that provides electrical isolation between primary and secondary circuits.

Three-Phase Transformer

A transformer used to convert three-phase AC voltages efficiently in power systems.

Voltage Regulation

The process of maintaining a constant voltage level for electrical devices.

Electrical Isolation

Separation of electrical circuits to prevent shock hazards.

Step-up Voltage

The increased voltage achieved by a step-up transformer.

Step-down Voltage

The reduced voltage achieved by a step-down transformer.

Hysteresis Loss

Energy lost in a magnetic material due to the lagging of magnetic domains behind the applied magnetic field.

Eddy Currents

Circulating currents induced within conductors by a changing magnetic field, leading to energy loss.

Transformer Characteristics

Transformers are static devices with no moving parts and operate only with alternating current (AC).

Power Generation Application

Use of transformers in generating electricity and transmitting it over long distances.

Domestic Application

Use of transformers to reduce voltage levels for household appliances.

Industrial Application

Use of transformers to supply power to industrial machinery and equipment.

Turn Ratio

The ratio of the number of turns in the primary winding to the number in the secondary winding.

Transformers in Power Systems

Used to efficiently transmit and distribute electrical energy across various applications.

Voltage Rating

The maximum voltage a transformer can handle without risk of failure.

Safety Standards

Regulations that ensure transformers are designed to prevent electrical hazards.

Transformer Maintenance

Regular checks and repairs needed to ensure transformers function efficiently.

Single-Phase Transformer

A transformer designed for single-phase alternating current applications.

Transformer Cooling Methods

Techniques used to manage heat in transformers, including oil cooling and air cooling.

Transformer Installation

The process of setting up transformers for operational use.

Transformer Ratings

Specifications indicating the capabilities and limitations of a transformer.

Kilovolt-Ampere (kVA)

A unit used to measure the apparent power in a transformer.

Magnetic Flux

The total amount of magnetic field passing through a given area.

Closed Magnetic Path

A configuration in an ideal transformer where all flux is contained between the primary and secondary windings.

Power Loss in Transformers

The total loss of energy in a transformer due to copper, iron losses, and leakage flux.

Applications in Renewable Energy

Transformers are essential components in wind and solar energy systems to convert and manage produced electricity.

Transformers in Communications

Used for signal transmission and voltage regulation in communication networks.

Overloading a Transformer

The condition when a transformer is subjected to a load that exceeds its designed capacity.