Also called electrical power transformers, power transformers are a machine that changes electrical energy from one circuit to another through mutual electromagnetic induction without changing a frequency. The power transformer accomplishes this task by either stepping up or stepping down the voltage from one side of the transformer to the other.
The role of power transformers is vital—they’re a cost-effective way to transmit power between high voltage (the generator) and low voltage (the distribution primary circuits).
How Are Power Transformers Designed?
Power transformers are designed a bit differently depending on their use case scenario, but this is the general construction:
- There is a core or shell variation of a metal structure that is covered by laminated sheets. The structure can be made to accommodate either a 1-phase or 3-phase transformer.
- The coils are wound and attached to the structure in sets of one, two, or three depending on the phase type required for an application.
- The transformer is enveloped in a fire retardant particular fluid.
For power transformers to work:
- The primary winding is connected to an electrical source.
- The main flux is induced.
- The primary source passes the main flux through the magnetic core.
- The main flux reaches the secondary winding through a low-reluctance path.
- A magnetic circuit that closes the flux is created.
Examples of Power Transformer Use by Industry
Schott Magnetics provides power transformers for certain applications in a variety of industries. Here are some examples:
- Aerospace and Defense: Aircraft pilots rely on power transformers for their lights, fuel control, data recording/storage, and communication systems.
- Energy/Solar: Power transformers are used in this industry to increase the power voltage that is delivered to the utility grid.
- Industrial/Commercial: Power transformers are used in the supply of electrical energy for equipment across the automotive, construction, agriculture, and mining sectors.
- Medical: Power isolation transformers are used to protect patients and medical equipment from electrical shock when using medical imaging and scanning machines, portable medicine drip controls, monitoring equipment, surgical devices, and more.
- Telecommunication: Power transformers (of the audio variety) allow AC audio signal to go from an amplifier to a speaker, allowing for maximum power transfer while improving safety.
Power Transformer Specs
Power transformers come (or can be made) in a broad range of variations. Some of the specs from which to choose are:
- Size range and form factor
-
-
- A broad amount of sizes
- Bobbin type such as self leaded, surface mount, through hole configuration
-
- Output range
-
-
- Up to 400W and 4000VAC isolation
- Built to reinforced insulation requirements
-
- Operating temperatures
-
-
- 130°C
- 155°C
- 180°C
- 200°C
-
- Packaging options
-
-
- Tray
- Bulk
- Tape and reel
-
- Compliance standards
-
- EN60950
- UL60601
- CSA
- IPC-A-610
- RoHS3
- Conflict Free
Where to Get Power Transformers
Schott Magnetics has over 70 years of experience providing power transformers to a variety of industries. We can help you choose the right power transformer for your application or assist you in the rapid development, prototyping, and production of custom power transformers.
Whatever your power transformer needs, contact an expert today!
