Transformers (LADWP)

What is a transformer?

A device used to increase or decrease the voltage in electrical circuits.

Where does a Step-Up Transformer have more coil?

The secondary coil

Disadvantages of Step-Down Transformer?

Requires a lot of maintenance, volatility in feedstock costs, fault rectification takes more time

What are some applications of a Step-Down Transformer?

Adapters, cell phone chargers, transmission lines, welding machines, TVs, inverters

What are the components of a transformer?

Iron Core, Windings, Bushings, Radiators, Temperature Sensors, Oil gauge.

Describe the Radiators component of a Transformer.

It accelerates the cooling rate of the transformer.

What is a Step-Down Transformer?

It decreases the voltage to go into homes and increases the current.

What is a Step-Up Transformer?

It increase the voltage and decrease the current. It is used to reduce the line losses. By increasing the voltage, the line current proportionally decreases and power loss from cable resistance is reduced.

Describe the Temperature Sensors component of a Transformer.

It is used to monitor the transformer for both oil and winding hotspots.

Advantages of Step-Down Transformer?

Makes transmission power easier and cheaper, 99% efficiency, low cost, high reliability, high durability, provides varied voltage requirements.

Advantages of Step-Up Transformer?

Makes transmission power easier and cheaper, 99% efficiency, low maintenance, can start immediately after installation, can work constantly without any break.

Describe the Oil Gauge component of a Transformer.

Measures the cooling insulating liquid. As the temperature increases, the oil expands.

What are some applications of a Step-Up Transformer?

Microwaves, Tesla coils, current sensors, power plants, and neon signs

Disadvantages of Step-Up Transformer?

Requires a cooling system, bulky, works only for AC

Describe the Bushings component of a Transformer.

The bushings are the external connections of the windings. It is an insulating structure.

Describe the Iron Core component of a Transformer.

The iron core is used to direct the magnetic field from primary to secondary windings.

Where does a Step-Down Transformer have more coil?

The primary coil

Describe the Windings component of a Transformer.

The windings consists of a primary and secondary, it is normally copper because it has a higher conduction than aluminum.

What are transformers used for? And explain the process.

They are used to increase or decrease the voltage in electrical circuits. First lower the current passing through transmission lines by increasing the voltage and then decreasing the voltage coming to the city, into homes and factories.

How does a Transformer work?

Transforms electrical energy (primary windings) to magnetic energy (magnetic core) and back to electrical energy (secondary windings).