TMPC 231 / TMEC 3-1
DC AND AC MACHINERY
REPORT NO. 5
TRANSFORMER
Submitted by:
CESMA, CRISDELL KIERBY L.
BSME Student
Submitted to:
Engr. CRIS DARRYL S. ZARA
Instructor
Functions and uses of a Transformer
Transformers play a vital role in electrical systems by adjusting voltage levels to ensure efficient power transmission and
usage. Their primary function is to either step up or step down voltage as needed. During long-distance power
transmission, transformers increase voltage to reduce losses caused by wire resistance, allowing electricity to travel
efficiently from power stations to distant areas. When the electricity reaches consumers, transformers lower the voltage
to safe levels suitable for lighting, appliances, and industrial equipment.
Beyond voltage conversion, transformers are also key components in power transmission and distribution networks.
They distribute electricity to various regions through different voltage levels, improving overall system efficiency.
Transformers can also influence the amplitude of an alternating current’s waveform, enabling the transmission of
electrical energy across greater distances. In specific applications, such as electric arc furnaces, transformers are
designed to increase current flow, providing the necessary energy for heating elements.
Types of Transformer
1. Step-Down Transformer
Both the electrical and electronic fields use step-down transformers. The primary voltage level is changed to a
lower voltage across the secondary output using a step-down transformer. The primary to secondary winding
ratio accomplishes this. There are more windings on the primary side of step-down transformers than on the
secondary side. As a result, the primary to secondary winding ratio is always greater than 1.
2. Step-Up Transformer
The exact opposite of a step-down transformer is a step-up transformer. The low primary voltage is raised to a
high secondary voltage by the step-up transformer. Once more, the ratio of the primary to secondary windings
accomplishes this. The primary winding to secondary winding ratio for the Step-Up transformer is still less than
1. This indicates that the secondary winding has more turns than the primary winding.
3. Isolation Transformer
The isolation transformer does not convert any voltage levels. The Primary voltage and the secondary voltage of
an isolation transformer always remain the same. This is because the primary and the secondary winding ratios
are always equal to 1. That means the number of turns in the primary and secondary windings is the same in the
isolation transformer
Energy Losses in Transformer
1. Core Losses
Core losses occur in the transformer’s magnetic core due to repeated magnetization and demagnetization when
alternating current passes through.
These are divided into two types:
a. Hysteresis Loss – Caused by the continuous reversal of the magnetic field in the core material. This energy is
lost as heat. It can be reduced by using magnetic materials with a narrow hysteresis loop or low hysteresis value.
b. Eddy Current Loss – Occurs when circulating currents form inside the core because of the alternating
magnetic field. These currents generate heat and energy loss. To minimize them, transformer cores are built
from laminated steel sheets to limit current flow.
2. Copper Losses
Also called Ohmic or I²R losses, these occur in the transformer’s windings due to the electrical resistance of
copper conductors.
When current flows through the windings, part of the energy converts into heat.
Copper losses can be reduced by using conductors made of low-resistivity materials, efficient winding designs,
and thicker wires to decrease resistance.
Reducing both core and copper losses enhances the transformer’s overall efficiency.
Effects of Frequency in Transformer
The number of turns, internal resistance, polarity, and waveform generation of a high-frequency transformer are
the primary indicators of how the frequency of the transformer affects the voltage. To get the optimum performance
and effects, high-frequency transformers must be designed with the aforementioned aspects in mind and employ the
right materials and technology throughout.
Construction of a Transformer
A transformer has 3 main parts:
1. The Iron core
2. Primary winding
3. Secondary winding
The core is rectangular, laminated, and designed to reduce energy losses during operation. It allows alternating
magnetic flux to pass through, which can cause hysteresis and eddy current losses. It is also built from thin
laminated sheets coated with varnish to reduce eddy currents and heat generation.
The windings consist of the primary winding, connected to the input source, and the secondary winding,
connected to the output load. Both windings are insulated from each other and the core to prevent energy loss
and ensure safe, efficient operation.
Applications of a Transformer
Electrification of Railways
Transformers are necessary for railway electrification in order to reduce high voltage from overhead wires to a level that
is safe for trains. By ensuring that trains receive the proper amount of power for effective operation, these transformers
enable dependable and safe rail transit.
Medical Usage
Transformers are employed in the medical field to generate high voltage current for MRI and X-ray machines, in addition
to electric devices like motors and everything else. They produce high-voltage current that aids in diagnostics and
imaging.
Current Conversion
Alternating current can also be converted to direct current using transformers. Transformers and rectifiers work
together to change alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). Electronic gadgets that need power supplies use
these kinds of equipment.
Power Supply
These electric transformers enable us to deliver electricity across a considerable distance while minimizing the amount
of electrical energy wasted. The step-up transformer facilitates long-distance power transmission during this procedure.
It's time to reduce the voltage after a long-distance transmission so that it's safe for domestic usage. Step-down
transformers can aid with this.