There are many different components that are present in electrical systems and electronics. Each of the components has a job to do, and without a correct match between the components and the desired outcome, the entire system is less efficient or simply doesn’t operate.
One component that is found in many different types of applications is an electrical transformer. This is a static component as it contains no moving parts. All transformers work on a principle known as electromagnetic induction. They are designed to receive electrical energy from one circuit or source and transfer it to another. During this transfer, the electrical transformers do not change the frequency, but there will be a change in voltage and current.
Parts of a Transformer
All types of electrical transformers are slightly different as to the application of the transformer, but the transformation of the electric power between circuits is still the goal.
There are several components of an electrical transformer. The specific choice of size, configuration, materials and even the shape and cooling options for the transformer will all be based on the application.
A basic review of the parts of electrical transformers and the purpose they serve helps in understanding how these essential components work in a system.
Connections – there is an input connection, which is on the primary side of the transformer to provide the original electrical power source. The output connections are on the secondary side, and these transmit the changed electrical power to the receiving component.
Core – this is specially designed to reduce the heat that can occur during the magnetic flux. Laminated sheets of material are typically used to construct the core, which can take on a range of different shapes and sizes.
Windings – around the core on either side are the primary and secondary windings. These are the wires that allow the current to travel through the core and complete the transformation process between the primary and secondary windings.
The flow of electrical current through the primary winding creates the magnetic flux that alters the original power level by either increasing (step up) or decreasing (step down) the power that will leave via the secondary winding and connections.
