In today’s modern-day and age of digital technology, we are surrounded by electrical appliances such as laptops, smartphones, and other connected systems, which cannot function without the convenience of one essential element – electricity!

Optimum flow of power can be achieved by utilizing electrical transformers at various spaces like home and office. You can find different electrical transformers for different applications. Read below.

The Different Types of Electrical Transformers

Electrical transformers can be classified into different types based on their purpose, application, and build. In some cases, these classifications can overlap. For example, an electrical transformer can be both a 3-phase transformer and a step-up transformer simultaneously. Here are some common types of electrical transformers:

• Step Up Transformer and Step-Down Transformer

Step-up transformers change the low voltage (LV) and high flux current from the transformer’s primary side to the high voltage (HV) and low flux current level of the transformer’s secondary side. 

Whereas a step-down transformer changes the high voltage (HV) and low flux current from the transformer’s primary side to the low voltage (LV) and high flux current level on the transformer’s secondary side.

• 3 Phase Transformer and Single-Phase Transformer

Generally, a 3-phase transformer is used in a 3-phase electrical power system because it provides more cost-efficiency when compared to single-phase electrical transformers. 

Although, if size matters, then it is recommended that you employ a cluster of 3-single phase transformer and not a 3-phase transformer as it will be easier to move when compared to the one single piece of a 3-phase transformer unit.

• Electrical Power Transformer

Power electrical transformers are typically utilized in the transmission networks, where there is a requirement for the voltage levels to be stepped up or down. It mainly functions during the peak loads and reaches its optimum efficiency when the voltage levels are at or near full load.

• Distribution Transformer

Distribution electrical transformers are generally used for stepping down the voltage for the purpose of distributing electricity to domestic, residential, and commercial consumers. It has an improved level of voltage regulation, and continually runs for twenty-four hours a day with a maximum efficacy level at 50% of full load.

• Instrument Transformer

Instrument transformers mainly consist of Current Transformer (CT) and Potential Transformer (PT), which are utilized to lower high voltages and flux currents to reduce levels that can get measured by standard or conventional instruments.

• Oil Cooled and Dry Type Transformer

This specific classification relates to the cooling system that gets used within the transformer. In oil-cooled, electrical transformers, the cooling medium or agent is the transformer oil. On the other hand, in dry-type electrical transformers, the cooling medium is air-based.

• Two-Winding Transformer and Auto-Transformer

Mostly, a two-winding transformer is utilized in case the ratio between the high voltage and the low voltage value is greater than that of 2. Whereas, in situations where the ratio between the high voltage and low voltage values is lesser than 2, then it is more cost-effective to use an auto-transformer.

The Way Forward

Whether it is to light up your house or keep your electronics working, today’s modern world needs an uninterrupted and safe electricity flow into residential or commercial establishments. Electrical transformers, in connection with electrical distribution transformers, facilitate electricity transmission to any given location. 

Electrical transformers process electricity at extremely high voltages, which further gets stepped-down by the transformer to lower voltage levels. This low voltage level of electricity is then distributed through the distribution electrical transformers to individual domestic or industrial units. 

If you are planning to buy electrical transformers and are confused about your options, it is better to get in touch with a licensed professional and get their recommendation. It will help you make an informed decision about buying the best electrical transformers!