Introduction

 Transformers are essential electrical devices used

to change the voltage of alternating current (AC) in
power transmission and distribution systems.
 A step-down transformer specifically reduces high
voltage to a lower voltage suitable for household
use.
 This project investigates a step-down transformer,
focusing on the relationship between the number
of turns in the primary and secondary coils, as well
as the corresponding currents.
 By converting 220V AC to approx 3.3V using a light
bulb, we will explore the principles of
electromagnetic induction (EMI) and how
transformers operate.
Theory
 Transformer Basics: A transformer consists of two
coils of wire, known as the primary and secondary
coils, wound around a magnetic core. When AC
voltage is applied to the primary coil, it generates a
changing magnetic field that induces a voltage in
the secondary coil.
 Principle of Transformers : Mutual induction
 Working : According to Faraday's law of
electromagnetic induction, the induced EMF
(electromotive force) in the secondary coil is
proportional to the rate of change of magnetic
flux. This relationship can be expressed as:

 where Vp is the primary voltage, Vs is the

secondary voltage, Np is the number of turns in
the primary coil, and Ns is the number of turns in
the secondary coil.
 Current Relationship: The relationship between
current in the primary and secondary coils is given
by:

 where Ip is the primary current and Is is the

secondary current. This means that as the number
of turns decreases in the secondary coil, the
current increases, maintaining the power
relationship in an ideal transformer.
 Efficiency: Transformers are generally efficient
devices, but losses occur due to resistance in the
wires (copper losses) and magnetic hysteresis in
the core (core losses).
Procedure
Materials Required:
 Copper wire (for coils)
 Iron core (for magnetic flux)
 4V Bulb
 220V AC power source
 Multimeter (for measurements)
 Connecting wires
Steps:
1. Construct the Primary Coil: Wind a
specific number of turns (e.g., 200
turns) of copper wire around the iron
core.
2. Construct the Secondary Coil:
Wind a smaller number of turns (e.g.,
20 turns) on a separate section of the
core.
3. Connect the Circuit: Connect the
primary coil to the 220V AC power
source and the secondary coil to the
4V bulb.
4. Measure Input and Output
Voltages: Use the multimeter to
measure the voltage across the
primary coil (VpV_pVp) and the voltage
across the secondary coil (VsV_sVs).
5. Measure Currents: Record the
current in both circuits using the
multimeter (IpI_pIp and IsI_sIs).
6. Calculate Turn Ratios: Vary the
number of turns in the secondary coil
to observe changes in output voltage
and current.
 Precautions
1. Ensure all connections are secure to
prevent short circuits.
2. Handle the 220V power source with
extreme caution.
3. Use insulated tools and gloves to
avoid electric shocks.
4. Double-check all measurements
before taking readings.
7. Sources of Error
 Hysteresis Loss:
 Hysteresis loss occurs in the magnetic core
material of the transformer due to the magnetic
properties of the material. When the AC current
flows through the primary coil, the magnetic field
in the core changes direction. The core material
experiences internal friction as its magnetic
domains realign with each cycle of the AC current.
This energy loss manifests as heat and contributes
to inefficiency. The loss is dependent on the
frequency of the AC supply and the material
 properties of the core. If a core with high
hysteresis losses is used, the efficiency of the
transformer is significantly reduced.
 Copper Loss:
 Copper loss refers to the resistive heating that
occurs in the windings of the transformer due to
the electrical resistance of the copper wire. When
current flows through the wire, some energy is lost
as heat, described by the formula P=I2RP =
I^2RP=I2R, where PPP is the power loss, III is the
current, and RRR is the resistance of the wire. This
loss is significant, especially under high-load
conditions. Using thicker wires or wires with lower
resistance can help mitigate copper losses, but
they still contribute to the overall inefficiency of
the transformer.
 Eddy Current Loss:
 Eddy currents are loops of electrical current
induced within the core material due to the
changing magnetic field. These currents flow
perpendicular to the magnetic field and generate
heat, resulting in energy loss. Eddy current losses
can be minimized by using laminated core
materials, which restrict the flow of these currents.
However, if the core is not properly laminated or is
 made from a material that allows significant eddy
current flow, this can lead to higher energy losses.
The presence of eddy currents also reduces the
efficiency of energy transfer in the transformer.
 Measurement Errors:
 The use of multimeters and measuring instruments
can introduce errors. For instance, inaccurate
calibration or limitations in the precision of the
devices can lead to incorrect voltage and current
readings. Additionally, the connection quality can
impact measurements, and any loose connections
may contribute to further inaccuracies.
 Environmental Factors:
 Temperature fluctuations and humidity can affect
the performance of electrical components. High
temperatures can increase the resistance of wires,
leading to greater copper losses. Humidity can also
affect the insulation properties of the transformer.