Power Transformers Are Critical To Modern Living

By Author: Maria Gini
Total Articles: 505
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The world has come to be increasingly driven by electricity which makes the power transformer critical in every aspect of modern living. This is because power transformers are used in varied applications, not just by the manufacturers of electricity. These are the major transport systems like the railways, aviation, aerospace and underwater navigation. In their own unique ways these industries need power transformers to utilize electric power within their unique specifications and convert into mechanical power. In this manner they are different from electronic transformers, which are basically transformers used for electronic purpose.
A power transformer is differentiated by end usage. A linear power transformer is mostly used in radio, project kits, VCD and etc while the switch mode power transformers can be found in computer monitors, TVs, fax and so on. A transformer consists of two or more coils ...
... wound on the same core. Power transformers can be manufactured in a wide range of sizes. They can be small enough to fit into a microphone, or they may be extremely large units that weigh hundreds of tons and used to interconnect national power grids.
Iron is usually used as the core material of power transformers. The basic property of a power transformer is to change AC voltage. A transformer cannot change direct current voltage. A step down transformer has a lower AC output voltage at its secondary winding than the AC input voltage to its primary winding. Conversely, a step up transformer has a higher secondary than primary voltage.
The transformer lamination or coating of shellac, enamel or varnish is to insulate adjacent turns from shorts between winding. Power distribution transformers may include highly efficient amorphous metal core transformers, package substations, battery chargers, switchgear and associated electrical equipment. These need to be checked periodically to ensure uninterrupted power supply. Checking a linear power transformer is quite straight forward. Apply the a/c voltage to the primary winding and expect output voltage at the secondary side. No or low output voltage means the transformer winding has open or shorted winding. Look for any evidence of overheating, such as darkened or blackened areas or a burnt smell.
SIGA (Electronics) Ltd is a leading manufacturer of all types of Ferrite cores, power transformers, medical isolation transformer, potted transformers, toroid transformer, and associated assemblies.