Distribution transformers are extremely useful and are a must need devices to smoothly run our power systems. There often seems to be a lot of confusion in the general public regarding tapping down HV distribution transformers and voltage management technologies such as voltage optimization, with the purpose of reducing a site’s voltage. To aid any confusion surrounding the difference of distribution transformers and voltage optimization products, we should clarify the role of transformers to reduce high voltage electricity from the grid. Because of this, the step down transformers can be used in a safe and sound manner.
This process involves transforming the entire power to a site from high voltage to low voltage. In contrast, the voltage optimization technology reduces the LV voltage, when higher than necessary, to the optimal voltage for the specifications of electrical equipment on site. This is often done by subtraction method rather than by transformation.
Can tapping the transformers achieve greater efficiencies?
By using step down transformers, which usually are distribution transformers, voltage reduction can be achieved by changing the tapping of the transformers. However, achieving reduction in this manner is not recommended. By implementing tapping, we can get different turn ratio and the ability to control the output. This helps us to get some sort of voltage management. But when the tapping is altered, it effects the number of coils and this affects the impedance of the transformer. This will lead to increase in the transformer current if the voltage is reduced, or a deduction in the transformer current in case of increase in voltage.
Transformers, especially those who work on high voltages should not be tapped beyond the settings they were specified and built to. Because this is when they will operate at their optimal efficiency. Utilizing this method to reduce the voltage is inefficient because of the relationship between voltage and current. Hence, HV transformers should be set to a tap based on site requirements, such as site capacity, to ensure that they operate at maximum efficiency.
Obtaining optimal efficiency through voltage management
The most effective method to achieve savings by reducing voltage is through purpose built voltage management technology as part of combined solution involving an amorphous core distribution transformer integrated with electronic dynamic voltage management. The step down transformer that BN Mahto Group supplies combines the benefits of a super low loss amorphous transformers, in which reduces load losses by much more when compared to traditional distribution transformers that are used. Our distribution transformers are an ideal example of how a step down transformer should be and it stabilizes the on-site voltage providing effective energy consumption and cost savings. Due to use of latest technologies in the making, our transformers are suitable for use in sites operating their own high voltage as well as low voltage supply alongside sites with a high incoming voltage profile and an inefficient HV/LV supply system.
Should we be using step down transformers for voltage management?
A step down transformer changes the entire power output from one specific voltage to the other as transformer’s secondary winding that delivers the energy has less turns than the primary winding. A step down transformer actually is used for multiple applications in Nepal, from enabling manufactured equipment to operating and maintaining the voltage conditions.
Why a step down transformer should not be used for voltage management?
In a general case scenario, many people try to achieve some sort of voltage management by changing the tapping of a step down transformer. By doing so, one will be able to obtain a different turn ratio and he/she will also be able to achieve the ability to control the output of the device.
However, this is an absolutely false practice! Although it is commonly done, awareness should be spread about discontinuing this method as it is not the right way to manage voltage of a system. Many experts in the related field, including us at BN Mahto Group, we strictly forbid use of this method to manage voltage. The reason behind why we don’t recommend this is as a step down transformer should not be tapped beyond the settings they were specified and built in. It is only in their manufactured conditions, that these valuable machines will be able to operate at their optimal efficiency, and be a valuable and uncompromisable part of our power systems that light the entire commercial and residential sectors.
Utilizing this as a method to reduce voltage is inefficient due to the relationship between voltage and the current. Hence, if we want to get the best out of distribution transformers, which are a type of step down transformer, then they should be set to a tap based on the site requirement in which it is used. Their site capacities, as well as other features should be maintained to ensure that these effective machines operate at their maximum efficiency.
The most effective and efficient way to reduce the voltage and to achieve savings is by using a purpose built voltage management technology as a part of combined solution. This usually involves an amorphous core distribution transformer which is integrated with electronic dynamic voltage management. Our top notch distribution transformers offer the best voltage management, without having to tap the voltage, which will not reduce the performance.
Use of Step Down transformer
Hence, we cannot underestimate the importance of step down transformer in our power system and should use them in a way in which they will offer maximum efficiency. It is through use of these crucial machines, reduced voltages are sent to our homes. Because of this, the household appliances can be used safely and won’t be damaged.
Apart from its obvious use in transmission lines to reduce the voltage, they are also used in many more places. You might not know this but, a type of step down transformers are also used in the adapters or chargers that we use in our homes for various purposes. They are also used in various household devices such as TVs, inverters, welding machines, etc. Therefore, after getting all these information about step down transformers, we can now start using them properly without tapping and also spread the word around about how to get the best out of them.