Use of Ac Power Isolation Transformer

An isolation transformer is used whenever you need to transfer energy from AC supply to an electrical or electronic load. So, it is a device that allows AC signal or power to taken from one device and fed into the other. This is done without the two circuits being connected. The isolation transformers block the DC signals from passing from one circuit to the other but they allow the AC signals to pass. The interference from ground loops is also blocked.

The AC power isolation transformers have a number of uses.

It is useful in sensitive equipments like the computer and laboratory equipments. Isolation transformers with electrostatic shields are used for supplying power to these sensitive equipments. They also provide an isolated neutral-ground reference for sensitive equipments. This also eliminates the noise.

The isolation transformers eliminate common mode noise. They are inexpensive when used for installing circuits and site electrical upgrades. The isolation transformers have primary and secondary windings which are not connected to each other. The output winding will be floating from earth ground unless it is bonded at the time of installation. The secondary neutral to ground bonding eliminates common mode noise.

When the isolation transformers are built with Faraday shields they improve the quality of power. This is done by attenuating higher frequency noise currents. It also lessens the leakage current of the isolator and the equipments connected to it to levels lower than 300 microamphs.

The primary and secondary windings of the isolation transformers may be built to step up and step down the output voltage. The isolation transformer will be able to match voltage between 120V load and electricity of 280V load.

A better impedance matching of a critical load to an electrical circuit is possible with the use of isolation transformers. A hundred percent isolation from the input AC line is possible by using an internal low impedance isolation transformer.

It is useful in hospitals where sensitive equipments are used for patients.

The isolation transformer is a 1:1 power transformer. It is used as a safety precaution when it comes to troubleshooting, testing and servicing of electronic equipments. The neutral wire of an outlet is connected to the ground, directly. Any grounded object near the device being tested may be at a hazardous potential difference in relation to the device. When an isolation transformer is used, the bonding is eliminated. The risk of shock is contained within the device itself.

Electrical surges can be reduced using isolation transformers. When surge suppression parts are placed at the line input and output with full line isolation, it filters continuously power line noise in all modes. Even in the worst of power environments, the surges are reduced to a level that will not affect the equipments.

The major problem is reliability of power. Power surges, noise and other factors have always affected electrical and electronic equipments. It is very essential when people depend on such gadgets all the time to have uninterrupted, quality power supply. Many o the equipments are sensitive and will fail to work or not work properly if it is continuously subjected to power disturbances. This is where the AC power isolation transformers are most useful. They give us protection for our equipments and help us use the electronic and electrical equipments without any worry.