[Explained] Types of Transformer and Their Applications

Transformer Types and Applications

There are many types of transformer are available. Transformers are classified based on many things and factors like voltage level, core types, windings arrangements, core medium, and many other factors. Here you will know about the different types of transformer and their applications.

We know that a Transformer is an electrical machine that transfers electrical power from one circuit to another circuit by changing the voltage level. But power and frequency remain the same in the both sides. So first let's see the types of transformers based on Voltage Level.

Before going to read the full article, you must have knowledge about primary and secondary winding. The primary winding is that where the input power supply is to be connected. On the other hand, the secondary winding is that where the load is to be connected or we get the output voltage.

Types of Transformer based on the Voltage Level:

You must know the classification of the transformer based on the voltage level because of our main purpose of using a Transformer is to increase or decrease the voltage. Based on the voltage level Transformers are classified into two types i.e. Step Up Transformer and Step Down Transformer.

Step UP Transformer:

The Transformer which steps up or increases the voltage is called Step Up Transformer. The output voltage level of a step-up transformer is always greater than the input voltage level but input power and output power are always the same. These transformers can increase the voltage because of the no. of turns in the secondary winding is greater than the no. of turns in the primary windings which is shown in the below figure.

Characteristics:

1. The no. of turns in the secondary winding is greater than the no. of turns in the primary winding.

2. Output Voltage is greater than the input voltage.

3. The input current is greater than the output current.

4. Input power and output power are the same.

5. Input frequency and output frequency are also the same.

Applications of Step-Up Transformer:

1. A common application of Step Up Transformers is they are used in electrical power generating stations to step up the voltage level from generating voltage to Grid voltage.

2. Step Up Transformer is used in Inverters to step up the voltage.

3. Step Up Transformer is used in Microwave Ovens.

4. Step Up Transformer is used in Mobile Phone Chargers.

Step Down Transformer:

Characteristics:

1. The no. of turns in the primary winding is greater than the no. of turns in the secondary winding.

2. Input Voltage is greater than the output voltage.

3. The output current is greater than the input current.

4. Input power and output power are the same.

5. Input frequency and output frequency are also the same.

Applications of Step Down Transformer:

1. Step Down Transformers are used for Electrical Power Distribution Purposes.

2. Step Down transformer used in electrical and electronic devices to step down the voltage such as 240V to 12V.

3. In the electrical switchgear protection system step-down transformers are used to give supply to the control circuits.

Types of transformer based on Phase:

1. Single Phase Transformer

Single Phase Transformers are used in electrical and electronic appliances, Residential and Commercial Power Distribution systems, Lighting Systems, Industrial Equipment, etc.

2. Two-Phase Transformer

Two-phase transformers are used for special purposes. In the railway traction systems, two-phase transformers are used.

3. Three Phase Transformer

Three Phase Transformers are used for electrical power transmission and distribution purposes. Three Phase transformers are also used for motor drives, large motors, pumps, compressors, and heavy machinery.

Types of Transformers based on Core Medium:

Based on the Core medium used Transformers are mainly classified into two types one is Air Core Transformers and another is Iron Core Transformers.

Air Core Transformer:

An air core transformer is a type of transformer that uses air as the medium for magnetic coupling between the primary and secondary windings, unlike a traditional iron core transformer where a magnetic core material, such as iron or steel, is used.

Characteristics:

1. In these transformers, primary and secondary windings or coils are wound on non-magnetic materials.

2. Here flux linkage occurs between primary and secondary windings through Air.

3. Hysteresis and Eddy Current losses do not occur in these transformers.

Applications of Air Core Transformer:

1. Mainly in high-frequency operations, Air Core type transformers are used.

2. Air core transformers are used in Radio Wave transmission systems.

3. Air core transformers are used in Audio systems.

4. Air core Transformers are used in Communication Devices.

Iron Core Transformer:

Characteristics:

1. In these transformers, windings are wound on a laminated Iron core.

2. Here flux linkage occurs between primary and secondary windings through the Iron Core as well as through the Air.

3. Hysteresis and eddy current loss occur in these transformers.

Applications of Iron Core Transformer:

1. For most of the purposes, Iron core transformers are used.

2. In transmission and distribution systems Iron Core Transformers are used.

Types of Transformers Based on Core Design:

1. Core Type Transformer

In a core-type transformer, the windings are wound around the limbs or legs of the magnetic core. The core is typically made of laminated sheets or strips of a ferromagnetic material, such as iron or steel.

2. Shell Type Transformer

In a shell-type transformer, the windings surround the core. The core consists of two separate closed magnetic paths, often in the form of two "E" or "I" shaped laminated core sections.

AutoTransformer Applications:

1. Auto Transformers are used as Variac to provide variable voltage supply.

2. Auto Transformers are used as a starter for starting of small induction motors.

3. Auto Transformers are used in the Audio systems for impedance matching.

4. In the Railway system AutoTransformers are used.

Pulse Transformer Applications:

1. Pulse Transformers are used in Digital Logic Circuits and Telecommunication Circuits.

2. These transformers are also used in camera flash controller systems.

3. These transformers are also used in Switchgear control circuits.

 Types of Transformer in Brief:

Types of Transformer
Based On	Types
Voltage level	Step Up Transformer, Step Down Transformer
No. of Phases	Single Phase Transformer, Two-Phase Transformer, Three Phase Transformer
Core Medium	Air Core Transformer, Iron Core Transformer
Design of Core	Core Type Transformer, Shell Type transformer, Spiral Core or Wound Core type transformer
Usage	Power Transformer, Distribution Transformer
Winding Arrangements	Auto Transformer
Measurement Transformer	Current Transformer, Potential or Voltage Transformer
Place of Use	Indoor Transformer, Outdoor Transformer
Cooling Arrangement	Oil Immersed Forced Air Cooled Transformers, Oil Immersed Water Cooled Transformers, Oil Immersed Forced Oil Cooled Transformers,

Read Also:

• [Three Reasons] Why Transformer is Rated in KVA
• Which side of Transformer is provided for Tapping and Why?
• Why Transformer Cannot work on DC Supply?
• Why Three Phase Induction Motor Self-Starting but Synchronous Motor not?
• [BEST] Applications, Advantages, Disadvantages of Isolation Transformer

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