What is a transformer? This is a device capable of converting current. The measurement takes place by means of electromagnetic induction. The operation of the transformer is based on the following principles:
- Modification of the existing magnetic flux that passes through the winding and the electromagnetic induction observed in the used winding. The magnetic circuit in popular models, the functionality of which allows you to work at ultra-high and high frequencies, may not be available. The best or ideal transformer will be the one that has no energy losses in the process of heating the windings, and their dissipation fluxes.
- A time-transforming electric current will create a time-varying magnetic field.
In popular models and novelties in the world of transformers, the connected power lines will pass through the turns of both coils. All incoming electrics go to the magnetic field through the primary circuit. Afterwards into the secondary circuit. In this case, the ratio of the incoming energy will be identical to the converted one.
The first prerequisites for the creation of equipment of this type were associated with the study of electromagnetic induction. Faraday should be thanked for its discovery. Based on the data obtained, in 1848 Rumkorf Heinrich Daniel began his work, which soon allowed the world to see the first induction coil. Such exercises were forced, since a unit was being developed that would allow converting direct current into alternating current. It was Rumkorf who first noticed that Fadey's development allows creating high voltage currents.
The modern world does not stand still and in everyday life a huge number of all kinds of electrical appliances are now used, the basis for which is laid even during the construction of a house. To significantly reduce power consumption, innovative technologies are used, as well as a number of such manipulations:
- manufacturers use auxiliary windings and durable materials;
- the best and highest quality transformer oils are used;
- resort to the help of modern insulating materials.
High-tech electronic transformers are equipped with a closed core, while the primary windings will be connected in parallel. To this day, the applied technology is being improved in every possible way. However, the focus is on the cores.
A search is underway for such a material that would help reduce the energy loss factor, which would lead to an increase in the efficiency of the system.
Principle of operation
The design features of the unit are such that it is based on the use of the effect of electromagnetic induction. What it consists of:
- insulated wire;
- windings;
- magnetic circuit (metal).
The primary winding is the one to which electricity is supplied. The secondary one is connected to electrical appliances that operate on condition that there is a constant power supply, and also consumes current. After connecting the transformer to the alternating current source, the formation of an alternating magnetic flux begins in its primary winding. Through the magnetic circuit, it will be transferred to the turns of the secondary winding. If a household appliance is connected, a current will be generated in the secondary circuit.
The ratio of the voltage ratios of the device (output and input) will be directly proportional to the available number of turns on the winding. A similar value has a designation - transformation ratio. The windings can be placed in the form of coils that are "one on top of the other" or in the form of separate elements. In budget models, the winding is made of enamel or cotton insulation.
For micro transformers, the thickness of the winding made of aluminum foil is no more than 25 microns. By natural oxidation of the foil, an oxide film is formed, which is used by the best companies as an insulating material.
Specifications
The main aspects include:
- The shape of the used magnetic circuit. It can be armored, toroidal, or rod-shaped.
- Number of windings. There are multi-winding and double-winding models.
- Number of phases. In the online store, you can buy three-phase and single-phase devices.
- Method of transformation. It can be down or up.
- The voltage indicator is the main mistake when choosing. There are high-potential (for substations), low-voltage and high-voltage installations.
The rated power is considered an important selection criterion and is reflected in the equipment description. Measured in volt-amperes. The cutoff factors may differ depending on the number of phases and other important characteristics. When reviewing low-power designs, it can be noted that they are capable of converting up to 20 volt-amperes. With an average power factor, the device will convert hundreds of volt-amperes, while powerful designs operate at thousands of volt-amperes.
Separation by frequency change:
- reduced frequency - 50 Hz or less;
- industrial frequencies - 50 Hz;
- increased industrial frequencies - 400-2000 Hz;
- increased frequencies - 1000 Hz or less.
What are
Thanks to the world's best manufacturers offering high quality products, transformers are widely used. They are used both in domestic conditions and in industry. Their main use is industry and the transmission of electricity over long distances with subsequent distribution. Electrothermal or welding transformers are no less famous. Based on the name, one can conclude that the equipment is used in the repair and manufacture of installations using a welding machine. You should also pay attention to the fact that the devices are also used to supply power to electrothermal installations. Used to provide power to various types of equipment. Depending on the main functions and purpose, they are divided into several categories.
Current strength
With their help, it is possible to convert the voltage to the required coefficient.Based on statistical data, they are often used for radio and electrical measurements, as well as for the establishment of galvanic isolation.
Current transformers
Rugged enough structures that contribute to improving the performance indicator of electrical energy metering circuits, protection of used power lines and autotransformers. Vary in operational measurements and dimensions. They can act both as stand-alone devices and placed in the case of small devices. Which one is better to buy? You should first familiarize yourself with the varieties.
Kinds | Description |
Intermediate | They are used to implement the re-conversion function. |
Protective | The connection is made directly to the protective circuits. |
Measuring | Used to supply current to control and measurement devices. |
Power
This type of transformer is considered the most popular and is used in industry. It is used for both lowering and increasing the current strength. It is mounted on separate sections of power lines. In the direction from capacities to consumers, energy can meet with similar power plants several times. It all depends on the remoteness of individual consumers. Before being fed to lighting, household or other appliances, the energy goes through a reverse transformation stage. This is due to the used step-down transformers.
TDM Electric TP-230V / 8-12-24 V AC 8VA
A compact and incredibly easy-to-use device that can be easily placed in a control cabinet. Due to it, intercoms, alarms and calls are powered. According to buyers, the price set by the manufacturer for the device is more than justified.
Average price - 600 rubles.
TDM Electric TP-230V / 8-12-24 V AC 8VA
Advantages:
- Convenient installation (due to 2-position support directly on the DIN rail). Fixation is possible in any direction.
- Excellent insulating properties. The interlayer is located between the secondary and primary windings. Thus, even an inexpensive fixture has received unrivaled short-circuit protection.
- For the manufacture of the case, high-quality plastic is used, which belongs to the category of non-combustible materials.
- Equipped with multiple terminals (non-slip). This allows the secondary winding to supply power to the load with three different voltages.
- A small-sized device used to supply reduced variables. It supplies automation equipment, alarm devices and intercoms.
Disadvantages:
CVGaudio T-20/16
Step-down transformer. It is used in conjunction with acoustic systems, which are connected to the transmission line. The device has four outputs. Used for taps with different power factors. It is possible to connect a speaker in 100 V mode with a power of 2.5 / 5/10/20 W. Equipped with feet that can be conveniently fixed on the audio system cabinet. Recommended power factor 35-50 W.
Product price - 700 rubles.
CVGaudio T-20/16
Advantages:
- no sound distortion;
- for greater convenience of connection, cables of different colors are used;
- the set includes an auxiliary cable (15 m), whose ends are tinned and protected;
- acceptable cost.
Disadvantages:
- low power indicator (bandwidth).
TR-08 8V AC
A compact and high-quality device that is used to feed household appliances that need voltage stabilization. Power factor (maximum) - 8 V. Simultaneous use with a stabilizer is possible. Before deciding on the choice, it should be noted that the kit will cost 950 rubles.
TR-08 8V AC
Advantages:
- output current power 1 A;
- the presence of screw clamps providing high-quality fastening;
- acceptable dimensions;
- fuse, triggered at a temperature of + 115 ° С;
- operation is possible at a temperature of -25 ° C - + 35 ° C.
Disadvantages:
- no short circuit protection;
- overpriced.
Gals ET-190E 60W
Focused on halogens (low voltage), 12 V. The maximum power factor reaches 60 W. It functions normally when connected to a 220 V network (household).
It should be noted that the length of the wire to the lighting fixture should not exceed two meters.
The price of the model is 600 rubles. Buying online directly from the manufacturer's website will be cheaper.
Gals ET-190E 60W
Advantages:
- acceptable cost;
- lack of noise during operation;
- smoothness of inclusion;
- compact dimensions.
Disadvantages:
- no protection against short circuit due to corrosion is provided.
Lightstar 517250 UNI
A stylish novelty from the Italian concern that will perfectly fit into any interior. A characteristic feature is that the model practically does not stand out against the general background. In the presence of a three-stage protection and soft start, which guarantees the smooth operation of the device. Fits under halogen lamps. Power indicator (minimum) - 50 V.
The price of the set starts at 1550 rubles.
Lightstar 517250 UNI
Advantages:
- no risk of overheating due to the mounted thermostat and thermostat;
- at the moment of a short circuit, an automatic shutdown occurs, as in the case of a voltage surge;
- when the resistance indicator drops, the system turns off;
- smooth start makes the service life of lighting devices longer;
- modern design.
Disadvantages:
- the system will turn off if the lamp burns out;
- cost (brand markup).
ET 190 B Ecoline
The model can be purchased in a plastic case. Designed for low voltage halogen lamps. The power indicator of the lighting devices will be 12 V. The manufacturer provides a two-meter wire in the kit. During the installation process, one should not lose sight of such an important aspect as the availability of free space to improve air circulation around the device. If this condition is not met, then the structure may overheat, which will lead to subsequent breakdown. Also, when buying, you need to pay attention to the permissible power indicator, which should not be exceeded.
Cost - 550 rubles.
ET 190 B Ecoline
Advantages:
- protection index ip20;
- compactness;
- the ability to work at a temperature of + 70 °.
Disadvantages:
- in the room, the temperature should not exceed + 40 ° С;
- no short circuit protection;
- block not dimmable;
- bare contacts that are not covered by anything.
Feron 250W 220-12V TRA-110
An excellent and inexpensive transformer from a Chinese manufacturer. Numerous positive reviews speak in favor of buying this unit. The concern has been on the market for over 20 years, and is a real competitor to many American and European brands. The main principle of the company is: excellent quality at an affordable price.
Construction price - 450 rubles.
Feron 250W 220-12V TRA-110
Advantages:
- efficiency factor - 95%;
- lack of strong noise during operation;
- protection against short circuit and overheating - a thermostat is installed;
- smooth descent;
- acceptable cost;
- relatively low weight of the structure;
- compactness;
- operating voltage 12 V.
Disadvantages:
- unusual body color;
- the box is not made of the best quality plastic.
Flesi 240/12 B
Practically irreplaceable assistant in the design and decoration of the house, as well as the courtyard area. LED strips are connected to it, as well as garlands, for which you will not need to worry afterwards. The maximum power rating is 300 W. Simultaneous connection of 6 best is allowed, each of which will have 38 watts.
Price - 850 rubles.
Flesi 240/12 B
Advantages:
- a well-advertised brand;
- numerous recommendations from specialists;
- high level of protection against moisture and dust - ip
Disadvantages:
- overestimated value due to brand advertising.
360W 410 360 Lightstar
The model is produced by one of the best Italian brands. It has a power of 360 watts. The output voltage is 12 V. The connection of a tape 5 meters long is acceptable.
The cost of the set is 2800 rubles.
360W 410 360 Lightstar
Advantages:
- the design is immune to high humidity;
- immunity to high temperatures;
- built-in protection against voltage surges;
- the body is made of aluminum;
- to connect wires and tapes, a mounting block is used, which is included in the kit;
- there are special holes in the case for greater ease of installation.
Disadvantages:
- for spacious rooms, a length of five meters will not be enough;
- high price.
Rexant 200-200-2 200W
Multifunctional and very compact design, which is designed to feed LED strips and other decorative lighting elements. Equipped with a 220 V power supply unit, which outputs 12 V. The manufacturer took care of protection against short circuits and overheating of the product. Due to this, the device is often advised by experts. The use of high technology has made it possible to achieve excellent stability in operation. A high-quality aluminum case protects radioelements from accumulated heat.
Price - 4900 rubles. including delivery.
Rexant 200-200-2 200V
Advantages:
- protection against current loss and oxidation;
- the case is protected from moisture - ip67;
- for stable and more reliable fastening, special terminals on the case are used;
- even with unstable voltage, a steady output current is observed.
Disadvantages:
- a high humidity indicator will be detrimental to the structure;
- high price.
Elektrostandart 12V 150W IP00
An excellent option for maintaining and normal functioning of LED strips and other decorative elements. All key elements are securely hidden under the metal case. A perforated cover is installed to improve heat transfer. Only high quality materials are used for the manufacture of the product. The product is certified and meets all necessary safety requirements. Possibility of simultaneous connection of two LED strips. The model is equipped with a fuse and a convenient mounting block.
The cost of the set is 2700 rubles.
Elektrostandart 12V 150W IP00
Advantages:
- durable body;
- improved heat transfer due to the design features of the model;
- powerful and reliable;
- stable and long-term work;
- the case is protected from moisture and dust.
Disadvantages:
- cost;
- the possibility of purchasing defective goods.
The best designs with a change of 220-12 / 24V
LATR Uniel U TDGC2 0.5
A modern unit equipped with numerous auxiliary options. The manufacturer has thought about the presence of highly efficient air cooling that can cope with maximum loads. Adjustment of the output voltage is allowed - 0-330 Volts. The input indicator is 220 Volts at a frequency of 50 Hz. It can be used for a wide variety of tasks. Installation in production, workshops, private homes and laboratories is acceptable. In the presence of a liquid crystal display that displays the current voltage reading. Thanks to this, you can easily control the correspondence of the displayed indicators with the real ones.
Cost - 3200 rubles.
LATR Uniel U TDGC2 0.5
Advantages:
- manual regulation of indicators is permissible;
- durable body;
- built-in voltmeter;
- liquid crystal display.
Disadvantages:
- not the most profitable purchase in terms of price and quality;
- need grounding;
- for connection, you must additionally purchase terminals.
OSO - 0.4 kVa 220/24 V
A product of a domestic manufacturer. The design is designed to work in heated and enclosed spaces. The temperature in the room must be stable. Direct sunlight should be avoided in every possible way.
Price - 2100 rubles.
OSO - 0.4 kVa 220/24
Advantages:
- long service life;
- the location in the room will not play a special role;
- stationary construction.
Disadvantages:
- overcharge;
- low protection class;
- dust is a factor that can affect the performance of devices.
TS40 / 12-24C ABB
Designed by a renowned manufacturer of high quality electronics and protection devices. Connects to networks characterized as ultra-low (corresponding voltage rating). In this case, the maximum power factor should not exceed the 40 V mark. Accidental contact with the secondary winding is allowed.
Price - 3500-4200 rubles.
TS40 / 12-24C ABB
Advantages:
- after troubleshooting, power is automatically restored;
- short circuit and overload protection;
- high operational life;
- compactness.
Disadvantages:
RESANTA LATR TDGC2-2
Product from a domestic manufacturer. It is used for testing modern electrical appliances. Can be used as a protective structure for private houses. Copes with sudden power surges. The long service life and the corresponding build quality speak in favor of this model. Manual adjustment up to 250 volts is allowed. A pointer voltmeter is built into the front panel of the unit.
The price of the kit is 5000 rubles.
RESANTA LATR TDGC2-2
Advantages:
- high operational life;
- acceptable cost;
- built-in voltmeter.
Disadvantages:
- availability of auxiliary options;
- high weight, which is extremely inconvenient during transportation.
Neon-Night 220-24 V, 30 W
The design converts the voltage for the user who needs a low-voltage power supply. The company's reputation is good and the product is lightweight. It is used if there is a need to connect auxiliary lighting devices. For the structure to work, you will need to connect the lighting devices to the network. Lighting is switched off and on by using a built-in switch in the primary network.
Price - 5900 rubles.
Neon-Night 220-24 V, 30 W
Advantages:
- high quality materials are used for the manufacture of the case;
- famous brand;
- high reliability factor;
- profitability.
Disadvantages:
- unacceptable indicator of moisture and dust protection.
Lightstar UNI 517150
Step-down transformer. Equipped with electronic circuitry and connected to a circuit consisting of the latest generation of halogen bulbs. Lighting devices can have a voltage factor of 12 V. Such important elements as a thermostat and a thermostat are involved in the circuit. They protect the system from incorrect connection and overheating. In the event of a short circuit or a sudden power surge, the system will automatically shut down. After stabilization of the state in the network, the device will turn on.
Price - 350 rubles.
Lightstar UNI 517150
Advantages:
- automatic shutdown when an emergency occurs;
- smooth start increases the operational life of the devices;
- the transformer will shut off if the light bulb burns out, thus protecting the entire network and other lighting fixtures from possible overload.
Disadvantages:
Rating of the best devices with a change of 220-110 V
Robiton 3P100
High quality step-down transformer. According to buyers, it is an excellent solution for arranging a private house. The product is fully certified. The relevant information is indicated in the product passport. It belongs to the category of low-power units, which are fed with a voltage of 110 V. This allows it to work in conjunction with a large number of electronic installations.
How much is? The set will cost the buyer 700 rubles.
Robiton 3P100
Advantages:
- European plug for greater ease of use;
- there is protection against short circuit and overload - temperature fuse;
- quality control at each stage of production;
- products are certified.
Disadvantages:
- only one device can be fed.
LATR PHO 250 0,5 М
The design is equipped with an output for 220 V and 127 V. At the output, the indicator should not exceed 250 Volts. A more accurate value is set manually by the owner.The set voltage can be seen on the threaded scale, the adjustment of which is extremely convenient. The power of the unit is 0.5 kW, which puts it in the low-power category. It is worth noting the presence of a high-quality cooling system.
The cost of the construction is 1000 rubles.
LATR PHO 250 0,5 М
Advantages:
- ease of manual adjustment;
- high operational life;
- high reliability indicator;
- acceptable cost;
- efficient cooling system;
- two connectors for input voltage.
Disadvantages:
- you need terminals to connect;
- low power indicator;
- no voltmeter is provided.
ATS220 / 100-100
Product of a Polish manufacturer. Used for electrical appliances that operate 100-120 V. Has an additional American or Japanese outlet that is suitable for appliances used in those regions. Thus, you can significantly save on the search and subsequent purchase of an auxiliary adapter.
The set will cost 1500-2500 rubles.
ATS220 / 100-100
Advantages:
- insignificant weight;
- after troubleshooting, automatic switching on occurs;
- overheating and short circuit protection.
Disadvantages:
- the moisture protection index is low.
Conclusion
The main advantage of induction designs is a high degree of reliability and reasonable cost of popular models. The disadvantages are considered to be the significant weight of individual devices and their low sensitivity to voltage surges. In this regard, the designs are of extremely limited use. It is not recommended to use them for powering ceiling lights. Electronic ones are often used under halogen lamps. They are characterized by the presence of a stable output voltage and acceptable power, therefore there are no special restrictions on their use. Lamp protection units are considered to be a separate category.
During the connection process, a smooth start occurs. Electric transformers guarantee the protection of lighting fixtures against significant voltage surges. Thus, it was possible to significantly extend the service life of the lamps.