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Basics of Transformer

Transformers are basically used for the purpose of converting alternate current from one voltage to another. Transformers could either be step up or step down voltage. Under usual operating conditions, a transformer is a low continuance, long lasting static solid state device with actually no moving parts. In the most unsophisticated terms, it includes 2 or more coils of insulated wire that are wound on a laminated steel core. When the prime coil receives the incoming voltage, the iron core is magnetized and that induces the voltage in the secondary coil. The actual voltage ratio between prime and secondary coils depends up on the turn ration of both the coils

Transformer does not act as a phase converter! For this reason, transformers are repeatedly used in conjunction with American Rotary phase converters. For instance, a shop with a 240 volt single phase supply, which requires running a 208 volt 3-phase air conditioning compressor, would require a transformer step down the voltage from 240 volts to 208 volts. Then the rotary phase converter is used to make the necessary change from single phase to three phase power.

Frequency change could not be taken place by any transformer. Frequency is actually not significant to the usual operation of most of the loads; most motor driven loads would simply run at a slightly different speed than they did at their available frequency. Simple heating equipment such as broilers, coffer pots etc. would operate with out any problem. However, equipments that are depend upon frequency like clocks, turntables, cassettes players etc. must be converted for voltage with a transformer.

Some transformers carries taps on the high voltage winding, which permits the transformer to deliver its full rated output voltage that are slightly high or slightly low. Many brands of dry kind distribution transformer could be connected in reverse. Although this type of installation is really common, there a certain restrictions that needs to be followed.