Understanding the main components of an electrical transformer also helps to understand how this type of equipment works. After all, from its components it is possible to understand how electrical flows happen in a slightly simpler way.
In this article, we'll help you understand more about the main components of an electrical transformer. Keep reading to understand everything.
Also read the article: Preventive Maintenance of Transformers: Find out why to do it and the benefits and learn more about the subject.
Components of an electrical transformer
The components of an electrical transformer are what basically give the transformer life. That is, the components are the fundamental parts for the device to work efficiently and, above all, safely, since it will often receive maintenance or be close to people in action.
Below, see the main components of an electrical transformer and learn more about each one of them:
Core;
Windings;
Isolation;
Transformer terminals.
Core
The core of the electrical transformer is, basically, where everything happens. The core is a piece made up of silicon steel sheets and is as if it were the “heart” of the transformer, that is, one of the vital parts of the equipment so that it is possible for voltages to be transformed according to the design and capacity of the transformer .
Inside the core circulates the magnetic flux generated by the transformer's input coil, which also interacts with the other coils of the transformer, that is, it concentrates the flux so that the magnetic circuit is closed and thus established so that energy transfer is possible between primary and secondary according to the transformation ratio established in the project.
Windings
The transformation ratio of the transformer is defined according to the windings. The windings are basically cylindrical coils. They are made of copper or aluminum wires or sheets and are generally organized in a helical manner, that is, in the form of a helix.
The windings are responsible for leaving the transformer operating properly for certain voltages.
Isolation
Transformer insulation is very important to guarantee the transformer's safety, durability and operation. In the case of dry transformers, insulation is provided by the insulating varnish between the conductors, and in some cases other types of insulators are also added and cooling is done by the air itself around the transformer. In the oil transformer, in addition to the varnish, the oil is the insulator itself, which also serves to remove the heat that is caused by the operation of the transformer. It is worth mentioning, however, that this oil has some disadvantages, such as pollution and dangerousness.
transformer terminals
And yet, another very important component of an electrical transformer is the terminal. Or even the terminals, since each transformer will have its own characteristic.
The terminals are nothing more than the outputs or inputs to the transformer, where energy can be transferred to other external connections. In order for energy to be conducted through the transformer terminals, it is essential that the equipment installed there be energy conductors.
How to tell if the components of an electrical transformer are of high quality
Each transformer has a specific function that can be analyzed by the electrical engineer responsible for the installation. Therefore, choosing the electric transformer correctly depends on numerous factors, and all of them are related to the energy needs of the electrical project.
However, even so, it is important to check other criteria that also need to be included in the equation, such as the quality of the electrical components' materials. After all, it is enough for one winding to have less quality for the entire system to suffer the consequences.
Look for serious companies with experience in the production processes of transformers to guarantee the best equipment for your installation, an example is to look for companies that have a Quality Management System certified in accordance with the requirements of the ISO 9001 standard, this ensures greater quality in delivery of products and that the company seeks to improve its efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Where transformers are used
Transformers can be used in numerous electrical projects. From the most robust and complex ones, as is the case with large industrial electrical installations, to the simplest installations, such as a homemade energy converter.
What will determine the type of transformer used are the needs of the application, the main ones being the input/output voltages and the power that the transformer will need. Transformers are used on poles, electric parks, industries and even electric fences to protect livestock.
How many coils are in a transformer?
The transformer basically has two coils. They are primary and secondary and are responsible for the magnetism that will transform energy. The windings that make up the coil are insulated from each other. It is noteworthy that autotransformers do not have this insulation between the coils.
What causes a transformer to explode?
A transformer can receive high demands and this is generally reflected in an increase in temperature, which is normal if it is in accordance with what is specified in the project. In the event of overloads or improper use, this temperature rise can exceed what was designed until, at a certain point, the insulator breaks, causing a short circuit, and this can cause the entire system to collapse, causing a fire. Especially if the transformer is oil-filled, where it can even cause an explosion.
The main reason why the transformer explodes and catches fire is precisely the high temperatures. In oil-filled transformers, in case of failure and fire, the pressure peaks inside are capable of causing the equipment to explode almost instantly.
That's why the main components of an electrical transformer need to be produced with all safety criteria and certifications. Otherwise, the transformer may be unsafe for both the operators and the operation.
Can the transformer get wet?
Some transformers, such as those on top of poles, can get wet, as they have protection for this. Rainwater will not interfere with the operation of the windings and will not create electrical discharges, since there is insulation provided for these situations.
However, industrial transformers or those made for indoor areas, must not receive water in any way, as this can cause some electrical defects and terminal failures.
The main components of an external electrical transformer, that is, those that are on poles or electric parks, receive a different preparation to meet the necessary degree of protection, making water not a problem in the windings or in any phase of the transformation . produces transformers for both external and internal areas.