Transformer Coils
Since there is such a wide range of transformer types, there is a correspondingly large number of applications and industries that transformer coils are utilized in, including: telecommunications, in which
pulse transformers are used to create electrical surges; power generation, in which
zig zag transformers are used to earth ungrounded electrical systems and for control and filtration of harmonic currents; electronics, for use in microwaves, camera flashes, radar equipment and more; and industrial manufacturing, for use as power supplies to equipment as well as whole facilities such as warehouses or plants. In response to the different application and type of transformer the coils are being used in, they can be manufactured from different conducting materials such as copper, steel or silver. On a basic level, transformer coils can also be other types of
electric coils, like
induction coils or
choke coils, because transformer coils are any two coils working together to help power an electrical transformer.
Although there are many different transformer types, the general construction of an electrical transformer remains fairly consistent. The general design features two main parts: a core and the coils. The core is typically cylindrically-shaped and is manufactured from ferromagnetic materials such as solid iron, solid steel or powdered iron. Multiple strands of conductive wire are wound around the ferromagnetic core to form the primary and secondary coils. The primary coil is connected to an input line whereas the secondary coil (or coils) is connected to an output line(s). An alternating current (AC) is introduced through the input line to the primary coil, which induces an alternating magnetic flux that then flows around the transformer's core and reverse direction during each of the electrical cycles. In response to the alternating magnetic flux that is induced in the primary coil, one is also induced in the secondary coil(s). The coils are often coated with varnish or wrapped in an insulating tape in order to reduce current flow (energy) losses and also to secure them in place around the ferromagnetic core. Although there is an extremely broad range of electrical transformers, some of the most common types include auto transformers, current transformers, power transformer, step up/step down transformers and high/low voltage transformers.
