Here’s a complete and detailed explanation of a Transformer — its working principle,
construction, types, equations, efficiency, losses, and applications — ideal for Electrical
Engineering studies.
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⚡ What is a Transformer?
A transformer is a static electrical device that transfers electrical energy between two or more
circuits through electromagnetic induction, without changing the frequency.
It is mainly used to step up or step down AC voltage levels.
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🧠 Working Principle of a Transformer
The transformer works on the principle of Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction:
> Whenever a magnetic flux linking a coil changes, an electromotive force (EMF) is induced in
the coil.
In a transformer:
1. Alternating current (AC) in the primary winding creates a changing magnetic field.
2. This magnetic field links the secondary winding through the core.
3. According to Faraday’s Law, this changing flux induces EMF in the secondary winding.
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⚙️ Construction of a Transformer
1. Core
Made of laminated silicon steel to reduce eddy current losses.
Provides a path for magnetic flux.
2. Primary Winding
Connected to the input supply.
Creates magnetic flux in the core.
3. Secondary Winding
Connected to the load.
Receives energy by mutual induction.
4. Insulation
Separates the windings and core electrically.
5. Tank (in large transformers)
Contains cooling oil and provides mechanical protection.
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🔄 Types of Transformers
Based on Function:
Step-Up Transformer: Increases voltage (used at power plants).
Step-Down Transformer: Decreases voltage (used at substations, homes).
Based on Construction:
Core-type Transformer: Windings surround the core.
Shell-type Transformer: Core surrounds the windings.
Based on Supply:
Single-Phase Transformer
Three-Phase Transformer
Special Types:
Auto Transformer
Instrument Transformer (CT, PT)
Isolation Transformer
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✏️ EMF Equation of Transformer
Let:
= Number of primary turns
= Number of secondary turns
= Maximum flux (in Weber)
= Frequency (Hz)
Then, the RMS values of induced EMFs:
E_1 = 4.44 f N_1 \phi_m
E_2 = 4.44 f N_2 \phi_m ]
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🔁 Turns Ratio and Voltage Relation
\frac{E_2}{E_1} = \frac{N_2}{N_1} = k
: Step-up transformer
: Step-down transformer
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📉 Losses in a Transformer
1. Iron Losses (Core Losses):
Due to alternating magnetic flux.
Hysteresis Loss
Eddy Current Loss
2. Copper Losses:
Occurs in primary and secondary windings due to resistance.
3. Stray Losses and Dielectric Losses (small)
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📈 Efficiency of a Transformer
Efficiency is given by:
\eta = \frac{\text{Output Power}}{\text{Input Power}} \times 100\%
\eta = \frac{V_2 I_2 \cos \phi_2}{V_2 I_2 \cos \phi_2 + P_{cu} + P_{iron}} \times 100\%
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🧪 Transformer Tests
1. Open Circuit Test
Determines iron losses.
Secondary is open; primary is energized.
2. Short Circuit Test
Determines copper losses.
Secondary is shorted; low voltage is applied to primary.
3. Sumpner’s Test (Back-to-back)
Tests two identical transformers under full load condition.
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💡 Applications of Transformers
Type Application
Step-Up Power generation stations
Step-Down Distribution systems
Auto Transformer Voltage regulators, starters
Isolation Medical equipment, safety
CT/PT Protection and metering
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🟢 Advantages
High efficiency (~95–99%)
No moving parts → low maintenance
Can work at high voltage → low transmission losses
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🔴 Disadvantages
Only works with AC
Not suitable for DC supply (no changing flux)
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🧠 Summary Table
Parameter Step-Up Transformer Step-Down Transformer
Voltage Output Higher than input Lower than input
Turns Ratio
Used In Power plants Substations, homes
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Would you like a labeled diagram of transformer construction, phasor diagram, or equivalent
circuit? I can create that for visual clarity.
