Step Up Transformers
Transformers are used worldwide for the purpose of safely storing and transferring energy as well as converting electrical currents to voltage.
Quick links to Step Up Transformers Information
Many industries benefit from the use of transformers, including:
- Telecommunications
- Appliance
- Computer
- Medical
- Dental
- Pool and Spa
- Sound Engineering
- Automotive
Step up transformers are commonly used in applications such as power transforming and modification due to their ability to covert lower voltages to higher voltages while reducing amperage and the effects of resistance. A step up transformer is frequently used in more than one location in a power transmission system and is usually the first major transformer within the system. One example is when transformers are utilized within a large power plant. The electricity generated in power plants are at an extremely high voltage. Transformers are crucial in changing the voltage so homes and businesses within the plant’s vicinity can be powered safely and efficiently. Electric energy is lost while traveling down a power line. However, the higher the voltage, the less energy that will be lost. Therefore, to conserve as much energy as possible, power plants utilize step up transformers to drastically raise the voltage of the electric energy before it exits the facility. Alternatively, international travelers use step down transformers to convert to the North American voltage standard to safely use cell phones, laptops, fax machines, or answering machines.
Step up transformers can range in size from small units that are utilized in devices such as radio loudspeaker, television sets, and high fidelity equipment, to larger units such as electrical power systems. Manufacturers of electric transformers fabricate them in a variety of configurations to accommodate for numerous industries and countless specific applications. Since step up transformers can vary in size and features, research on the appropriate transformer is critical. Fortunately, there are some manufacturers that offer custom design and fabrication of transformers so your exact needs are met.
In regards to the function of transformers, the voltage conversion entails electrical energy traveling through two phases of coils, with the second coil phase having a greater amount of winding, defined as a complete coil assembly. Some applications require only a single coil winding, and others require a tertiary set of windings. Electric transformers require two windings to complete the conversion process. These two sets of coil windings feature a core being made from either a ferrite compound or a laminated core wound with enameled coils or uncovered copper. The coil windings of step up transformers are typically constructed from aluminum, nickel, chromium, steel alloys, and copper, the latter of which is the most expensive yet is the most energy efficient.
The coiled windings within the transformer are not linked physically, but rather inductively by a magnetic field. The two sets of coils, known as the primary and secondary coils, act as conductors. The primary coil is connected to a power generator and acts as the input. The secondary coil is linked to the load or loads and serves as the output. In the first step of the conversion process, the primary coil receives alternating current (AC) voltage, which creates a varying magnetic field of voltage around the conductor. This magnetic field activates the secondary coil, and the energy is transferred to the load center once the voltage is converted. The ratio of the windings of the primary coil to those of the secondary coil determines how much the voltage will be converted, and the ratio of the voltage between the two circuits mirrors the ratio of the windings. In step down transformers, the secondary coil features more windings than the primary. The wire in the primary coil, however, is of a larger gauge, enabling the coil to withstand the increased current power that travels through it. The larger the diameter of the coil, the larger the amount of self induction.
The use of step down transformers to change the voltage will eliminate the risk of damaging equipment, short circuiting, or at the worst, starting a fire. The main principle of a step up transformer is to raise the voltage and reduce the current. Transformers are vital to this process, as numerous problems may occur if the voltage is not suitable for the application at hand. If the voltage is too high, it will greatly increase the risk of fire, electrical shock, or at the very worst, electrocution. A deficiency in voltage, on the other hand, can cause device failure.