Construction of

Single Phase
Transformer
Transformers are essential components in electrical power
systems, playing a crucial role in voltage transformation, power
distribution, and various other applications. This presentation will
delve into the construction and operation of single-phase
transformers, providing a comprehensive understanding of their
design principles and practical applications.

by GOWTHAMAN
Introduction to Transformers
Transformers are static electrical devices that transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another without any
direct electrical connection between them. They operate based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where
a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) in a nearby conductor. Single-phase transformers
are a type of transformer designed for applications involving single-phase AC power systems.

1 Voltage 2 Power Distribution 3 Isolation

Transformation
Transformers are extensively Transformers can provide
Transformers are primarily used in power distribution electrical isolation between
used for changing the voltage networks to step down high circuits, reducing the risk of
levels of electrical power. This voltage electricity to lower electric shock and enhancing
is crucial for efficient voltage levels suitable for safety in various applications.
transmission and distribution residential and commercial
of electricity over long use.
distances.
Principle of Transformer Operation
The operation of a transformer relies on Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. A changing magnetic field created by the
primary winding induces an EMF in the secondary winding, which then transfers electrical energy to the load connected to the
secondary circuit. This process is based on the following principles:

1 Magnetic Flux
When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it creates a changing magnetic flux around the
winding. This flux also links with the secondary winding.

2 Induced EMF
The changing magnetic flux induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the secondary winding, proportional to the rate of
change of flux and the number of turns in the secondary winding.

3 Energy Transfer
The induced EMF in the secondary winding drives current through the load, transferring electrical energy from the
primary circuit to the secondary circuit.
Components of a Single Phase Transformer
Single-phase transformers are typically constructed with the following components:

Core Windings Insulation

The core forms the magnetic circuit The windings are the coils of Insulating materials are used to
of the transformer and is usually insulated copper or aluminum wire separate the windings from the
made of laminated iron or steel to that carry the electrical current. core and each other, preventing
minimize eddy current losses. It The primary winding is connected short circuits and ensuring safe
provides a path for the magnetic to the source voltage, and the operation. Insulation materials can
flux to flow, linking the primary secondary winding is connected to include paper, oil, and various
and secondary windings. the load. synthetic materials.
Core Design and
Construction
The core design of a single-phase transformer is crucial for its efficiency
and performance. The core is typically constructed using laminated steel
sheets to minimize eddy current losses. These laminations are insulated
from each other to reduce the flow of eddy currents, which are circulating
currents induced in the core due to the changing magnetic field. The core
shape can vary depending on the transformer's application and power
rating, but common core configurations include:

1 Shell-type core 2 Core-type core

The windings are placed The windings are wound on
around the core, resembling a the core legs. This
shell. This configuration is configuration is typically used
suitable for higher power for lower power transformers.
transformers.
Primary and Secondary Windings
The primary and secondary windings of a single-phase transformer are essential for the voltage transformation process.
The number of turns in each winding determines the voltage ratio of the transformer. The primary winding is connected
to the source voltage, while the secondary winding is connected to the load. When an alternating current flows through
the primary winding, it creates a changing magnetic field that links with the secondary winding. This changing magnetic
field induces an EMF in the secondary winding, which is proportional to the number of turns in the secondary winding
and the rate of change of flux.

Primary Winding Secondary Winding Voltage Ratio

The primary winding is connected The secondary winding is The voltage ratio of the transformer
to the source voltage and carries connected to the load and carries is determined by the ratio of the
the primary current. The number of the secondary current. The number number of turns in the primary and
turns in the primary winding is of turns in the secondary winding is secondary windings. The voltage
denoted by Np. denoted by Ns. ratio is equal to Ns/Np.
Transformer Terminals and Connections
Single-phase transformers typically have two or more terminals for connecting the primary and secondary windings.
These terminals are usually labeled with letters or numbers to indicate the winding connections. The terminals for
the primary winding are often marked with "H1" and "H2," while the terminals for the secondary winding are marked
with "X1" and "X2." The connection between the primary and secondary windings is determined by the
transformer's winding configuration, which can be either "star" or "delta" connection. The specific terminals and
their connections are usually indicated on the transformer's nameplate.

Terminal Function

H1 Start of the primary winding

H2 End of the primary winding

X1 Start of the secondary winding

X2 End of the secondary winding

No-Load and Load Conditions
A transformer's operation can be analyzed under two primary conditions: no-load and load conditions. In no-load
conditions, the secondary winding is not connected to any load, resulting in minimal current flow in the secondary
circuit. This condition is mainly used to measure the transformer's no-load losses, which include core losses and
winding losses.

No-Load Condition Load Condition

The secondary winding is not connected to a load, and The secondary winding is connected to a load, and
only a small magnetizing current flows through the current flows through both the primary and secondary
primary winding. This current is used to establish the windings. The load current causes a voltage drop across
magnetic flux in the core. the secondary winding, reducing the output voltage. The
primary current increases to compensate for the
secondary current and maintain the magnetic flux in the
core.
Efficiency and Losses in Transformers
The efficiency of a transformer is the ratio of the output power to the input power. It represents the percentage of
power transferred from the primary winding to the secondary winding. Ideally, a transformer should have 100%
efficiency, but in practice, there are various losses associated with transformer operation, which reduce its
efficiency. These losses can be broadly categorized as:

Copper Losses Core Losses Stray Losses

Copper losses are caused by the Core losses are caused by the Stray losses are caused by
resistance of the windings, magnetization and leakage flux, which is the
resulting in heat dissipation due demagnetization of the magnetic flux that does not link
to the flow of current. These transformer core due to the both windings. These losses are
losses are proportional to the changing magnetic field. They relatively small but can be
square of the current flowing consist of hysteresis losses and significant in high-power
through the windings. eddy current losses. transformers.
Applications and Importance of Single
Phase Transformers
Single-phase transformers are widely used in a variety of applications, including:

• Power distribution networks

• Residential and commercial power systems
• Home appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners
• Electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and smartphones
• Industrial equipment and machinery

The importance of single-phase transformers lies in their ability to efficiently transform voltage levels, isolate
circuits, and provide a reliable source of power for various applications. They are crucial for the distribution and
utilization of electrical energy in modern society.