ELECTRICAL
TRANSFORMERS
ELECTRICAL
TRANSFORMERS ?
What is it?
Here is the answer right away.
PLAN
INTRODUCTION
A transformer is an electrical device that modifies the alternating voltage between
two circuits through electromagnetic induction, without direct contact between
them. It plays an essential role in the electrical network by increasing the voltage
for long-distance energy transmission and reducing it for distribution to end users.
OPERATING PRINCIPLE
A transformer operates based on the
principle of electromagnetic induction
discovered by Faraday: an alternating
voltage applied to the primary circuit
creates a varying magnetic field in the core.
This magnetic field induces a voltage in the
secondary circuit, enabling energy transfer
without direct contact. The transformation
ratio between the primary and secondary
voltages is given by the formula:
m = Vs / Vp
TYPES OF
TRANSFORMERS
Transformers are classified based on several criteria,
such as their function :
1. STEP-UP
TRANSFORME
R
•Function: Increases the voltage on
the secondary side compared to the
primary side.
•Use: Mainly used in power
transmission over long distances, to
reduce energy losses.
2. STEP-DOWN
TRANSFORME
R
•Function: Decreases the voltage
on the secondary side compared to
the primary side.
•Use: Used to reduce the voltage in
electrical grids for domestic or
industrial use.
3. ISOLATION TRANSFORMER
•Function: Provides galvanic isolation
between the primary and secondary
windings, with the primary voltage
equal to the secondary voltage.
•Use: Used to separate electrical
circuits for safety, especially in
sensitive equipment.
COMPONENTS OF A
TRANSFORMER
A transformer consists of several key components:
Magnetic core: Made of ferromagnetic material, it
concentrates the magnetic flux.
Windings:
Primary winding: Receives the input voltage.
Secondary winding: Provides the output voltage.
Insulation: Protects the windings and prevents short
circuits.
Tank/Enclosure: Houses and protects the internal
components
APPLICATIONS OF
TRANSFORMERS
Transformers are widely used in various fields to
ensure safe and efficient energy transfer. Here are
their main applications:
• Energy transmission: Step-up transformers increase
voltage for high-voltage networks, while step-down
transformers reduce it for distribution to homes.
• Domestic use: They are found in adapters and chargers
for electronic devices
• Industry: They supply power to machines and industrial
equipment.
ADVANTAGES AND
LIMITATIONS OF
TRANSFORMERS
o Advantages:
• Efficient transmission of electrical energy over long
distances.
• High reliability with a long lifespan and minimal
maintenance required.
o Limitations:
• Energy losses: Joule losses in the windings and
magnetic losses in the core.
• Large size and heavy weight for bigger transformers.
CONCLUSION
Electrical transformers are essential for
transmitting and distributing electricity by
adapting voltage to user needs. Their
operation, based on electromagnetic
induction, enables diverse applications
ranging from power grids to household
devices.
