A transformer is one of the oldest and most effective innovations of electrical engineering. To be honest, a transformer is a device that simply transfers power from one circuit to the another. Also, it makes sure that there is no change in the characteristics such as phase and frequency, and also makes sure that the transfer is done without any physical contact. Similarly, there are various part of a transformer that one needs to know about. Today, in this article, we will be focusing on those main parts that should be prioritized during its creation and also during its use.
We know that transformers are devices that transfers electric energy in the circuits. In addition, we should also know that the do it so by stepping up or stepping down the voltage accordingly. Both short and long distance transmission is possible because of the use of transformers. Therefore, it can be said that transformers are an essential device for all kinds of electric circuit network. Let us take a closer look at the different part of a transformer so that we will have a better understanding of these devices. By better knowing these devices, we will be able to get the most out of them.
A transformer is a device consisting of many elements. The electric circuit, magnetic circuit, tanks, accessories, etc. are some crucial elements. However, the core and windings are considered to be the main part of a transformer. Continue reading to get a brief details about all these parts.
Electric Circuit
Making of the electric circuit of a transformer mainly is related to the windings. During formation of electric circuit, the primary and secondary windings should be considered that is made up of copper. The conductors that is used in the rectangular cross section is usually used for low voltage windings. Similarly, it is also used for the large voltage windings in the larger transformers. In addition, the conductors of circular cross section area are used for high voltage windings. This is used in smaller transformers. During the construction of transformers, the manner in which the core is made by placing the windings, core type and shell type transformers are made.
Magnetic Circuit
A transformer’s magnetic circuit consists of yoke and core. The magnetic circuit gives the path for the flow of magnetic flux. In this, there is use of two coils and the laminated steel core. While making the transformer, the insulation is also carried out for the core and two coils. The device’s core is made from the laminations of silicon or steel sheets. Such an assembly of sheets allows for a continuous magnetic path for the flow of current. When the usual flux densities, the silicon steel material will also have low hysteresis losses. In the magnetic circuit part of transformer, the vertical position in which the coil is wound is known as the limb. Similarly, the horizontal position is called as the York.
Core type transformer
Generally, in core type transformers, rectangular frame laminations are placed to build the core part of a transformer. They are usually cut in L-shape strips. The laminations are even butted against each other to avoid any sort of high reluctance in the joints. Also, the alternate layers are kept differently in order to eliminate the continuous joints. The main and secondary windings are also interhalved. This is done in order to reduce the leakage of flux. The half of each winding is placed side by side or on either limb of the core.
Shell Type Transformer
In shell type, the laminations are cut in the long shape of strips of E or I. This type of transformer has two magnetic circuit and its core has three limbs. Central limb carries most of the flux while the side limbs only carry about half of the flux. Therefore, the width of the central limb is made broader than other limbs. The winding’s subdivision also helps in reducing the leakage of flux. Both primary and secondary windings are placed on the central limb. Similarly, low voltage winding is placed near the core and high voltage winding is placed outside. To reduce costs, the windings are wound to cylindrical shapes. Only then, the laminations are inserted.
Dielectric Current, Tanks and Accessories
Dielectric current is the insulation used in different places in order to insulate the conducting parts. For minimizing the eddy current losses, the core is laminated. They are insulated from each other by using a light coating of varnish or with an oxide layer. In addition, tanks and other part of a transformer also plays a vital part in ensuring its efficiency and long life.
Conservator and Breather
This is the part of a transformer that is placed in the top of the main tank of the device. A cover is also present in conservator which can be opened for maintenance and cleaning purposes. In addition, it also acts as a storage for insulation oil. Similarly, a breather acts as the transformer’s heart. When the oil heats and expands in the system, it also needs for the breathing in of air to cool the oil. To deal with moisture, silica gel is also filled in the breather.
Explosion Vent, Radiator and Bushings
Explosion vent is a thin pipe made out of aluminum. It is placed in both ends of the device to prevent it from any damages. When high pressure is created inside the transformer, these vents help in releasing the pressure. Similarly, another crucial part of a transformer is a radiator. Its main function is to cool the oil inside of the transformer. This is a detachable device whose both lower and lower parts are connected to the tank. Bushings of transformer is a device that allows electric conductor to pass energy safely and provides strength to insulation. The power factor of the bushings are always stable. However, it is the entrance of moisture that usually causes the problem in the system.
In a nutshell, these are the various part of a transformer. We should ensure that all these different parts are working fine in unison in order for the entire device to work efficiently. Also, here at BN Mahto Group, we offer the best transformers in Nepal. So, don’t forget to contact us if you have any queries or if you are looking for a long-lasting transformer.
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