Transformer
A transformer is a device that transfers electrical energy from one electrical circuit to another, without sharing any wires. This happens because the first circuit creates a magnetic field as its power rises and falls. The energy of the second circuit rises and falls with the first circuit, so there is no change in frequency between them. Transformers are an important part of electrical systems.[1]
Transformers are made in many different sizes, from a very small coupling transformer inside a stage microphone to big units that carry hundreds of MVA used in power grids.
The main reason to use a transformer is to make power of one voltage level into power of another voltage level. High voltage is easier to send a long distance, but less voltage is easier and safer to use in the office or home.[2] Transformers are used to increase or decrease alternating current (AC) voltage in circuits. The transformer is usually built with two coils around the same core. The primary coil or input coil is connected to supply side while secondary coil supplies power to load. The second one is called the output coil.[3] Energy is transferred from the primary to the secondary by electromagnetism. In power grids many transformers are used. These are networks for delivering electricity from the generator and to the user.
The transformers in your neighborhood, on electricity poles, or the ones connected to underground wires, usually transform high voltage of 7,200 volts to 220-240 volts of electricity to power lights and appliances such as refrigerators in homes and businesses.[4] Some countries, such as America use different voltages in homes, such as 120 volts. Transformers cannot increase power, so if the voltage is raised, the current is proportionally lowered. If the voltage is lowered, the current is proportionally increased.[5]
Transformers inside electronics equipment provide the kinds of electricity the various parts need.
There are several basic types of transformers:
- Step-up transformer: the voltage output is greater than the voltage input.
- Step-down transformer: the voltage input is greater than the voltage output.
- Some transformers have the same output voltage as input voltage and are used to electrically isolate two electrical circuits.
Gallery[change | change source]
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Utility pole transformers -
Transformer in Melbourne, Australia -
Distribution transformer in Taiwan
References[change | change source]
- ↑ Flanagan, William M. (1993-01-01). Handbook of Transformer Design and Applications. McGraw-Hill Professional. pp. Chap. 1, p. 1–2. ISBN 0070212910.
- ↑ Thomas P. Hughes (1993). Networks of Power: Electrification in Western Society, 1880-1930. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press. p. 119-122. ISBN 0801846145.
- ↑ "Transformer". Retrieved 1 June 2012.
- ↑ "How does a transformer work?". Archived from the original on 5 June 2012. Retrieved 1 June 2012.
- ↑ "Transformer". Retrieved 1 June 2012.
