Types of Transformers
Transformers Based on Voltage Levels
These are the most commonly used transformer types for all the applications. Depends
upon the voltage ratios from primary to secondary windings, the transformers are
classified as step-up and step-down transformers.
Step-Up Transformer
As the name states that, the secondary voltage is stepped up with a ratio compared to
primary voltage. This can be achieved by increasing the number of windings in the
secondary than the primary windings as shown in the figure. In power plant, this
transformer is used as connecting transformer of the generator to the grid.
Step-Down Transformer
It used to step down the voltage level from lower to higher level at secondary side as
shown below so that it is called as a step-down transformer. The winding turns more on
the primary side than the secondary side.
Transformer Based on the Core Medium Used
Based on the medium placed between the primary and secondary winding the
transformers are classified as Air core and Iron core
Air Core Transformer
Both the primary and secondary windings are wound on a non-magnetic strip where the
flux linkage between primary and secondary windings is through the air.
Compared to iron core the mutual inductance is less in air core, i.e. the reluctance
offered to the generated flux is high in the air medium. But the hysteresis and eddy
current losses are completely eliminated in air-core type transformer.
Iron Core Transformer
Both the primary and secondary windings are wound on multiple iron plate bunch which
provide a perfect linkage path to the generated flux. It offers less reluctance to the
linkage flux due to the conductive and magnetic property of the iron. These are widely
used transformers in which the efficiency is high compared to the air core type
transformer.
Transformers Based on Winding Arrangement
AutoTransformer
Standard transformers have primary and secondary windings placed in two different
directions, but in autotransformer windings, the primary and the secondary windings are
connected to each other in series both physically and magnetically as shown in the
figure below.
Auto Transformer
On a single common coil which forms both primary and secondary winding in which
voltage is varied according to the position of secondary tapping on the body of the coil
windings.
Transformers Based on Usage
According to the necessity, these are classified as the power transformer, distribution
transformer measuring transformer, and protection transformer.
Power Transformer
The power transformers are big in size. They are suitable for high voltage (greater than
33KV) power transfer applications. It used in power generation stations and
Transmission substation. It has high insulation level.
Distribution Transformer
In order to distribute the power generated from the power generation plant to remote
locations, these transformers are used. Basically, it is used for the distribution of
electrical energy at low voltage is less than 33KV in industrial purpose and 440v-220v in
domestic purpose.
It works at low efficiency at 50-70%
Small size
Easy installation
Low magnetic losses
It is not always fully loaded
Measurement Transformer
Used to measure the electrical quantity like voltage, current, power, etc. These are
classified as potential transformers, current transformers etc.
Protection Transformers
This type of transformers is used in component protection purpose. The major
difference between measuring transformers and protection transformers is the accuracy
that means that the protection transformers should be accurate as compared to
measuring transformers.
Transformers Based on the Place of Use
These are classified as indoor and outdoor transformers. Indoor transformers are
covered with a proper roof like as in the process industry. The outdoor transformers are
nothing but distribution type transformers.
