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Transformer Formula - Definition, Equations, Examples

Transformer Formula :  A transformer is an electrical device used to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. 
authorImageMurtaza Mushtaq10 Oct, 2023
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Transformer Formula

What is a Transformer?

Transformer Formula: A transformer is an essential electrical device used to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. It consists of two coils, primary and secondary, which are magnetically linked but electrically isolated.( VsVp=NsNp) The working of a transformer is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, as discovered by Michael Faraday in the 19th century. Transformers are essential electrical devices used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another by varying the voltage and current levels. They are widely employed in power distribution, electrical appliances, and industrial applications. Here's a detailed explanation of how a transformer works:

Basic Components of a Transformer

A transformer consists of two main components:

  1. Primary Coil (Winding): This coil is connected to the input voltage source.
  2. Secondary Coil (Winding): This coil is connected to the output load.
These coils are typically made of copper wire wound around a core, which can be made of materials like iron or other magnetic materials.

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Working Principle of a Transformer

The operation of a transformer is based on two fundamental principles:

  1. Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction: This law states that when the magnetic field linking a conductor changes, it induces an electromotive force (EMF) or voltage in the conductor. In the case of a transformer, changing the magnetic field is achieved by alternating current (AC) in the primary coil.
  2. Mutual Induction: When two coils are placed close together, as in a transformer, a change in current in one coil induces a voltage in the other coil if they are magnetically coupled. This is known as mutual induction.

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Here's how a transformer works step by step:

  1. AC Input
The primary coil is connected to an AC voltage source. When AC voltage is applied to the primary coil, it generates a magnetic field around it. This magnetic field is constantly changing direction due to the alternating nature of the current.
  1. Magnetic Field Induction
The changing magnetic field generated by the primary coil induces a voltage in the secondary coil through mutual induction. This induced voltage causes an alternating current to flow in the secondary coil.
  1. Voltage Transformation
The number of turns in the primary coil (N₁) and the secondary coil (N₂) determines the voltage transformation ratio. If N₂ is greater than N₁, the transformer is called a step-up transformer, and it increases the voltage. Conversely, if N₁ is greater, it is called a step-down transformer, and it decreases the voltage.
  1. Output Voltage and Current
The voltage and current in the secondary coil depend on the turns ratio and the load connected to the secondary coil. The output voltage and current are related to the primary voltage and current through the turns ratio as per the transformer formulas mentioned earlier.
  1. Efficiency
Transformers are highly efficient devices, with most of the energy being transferred from the primary to the secondary coil. Efficiency is typically above 95%, making transformers crucial in minimizing energy loss in power distribution.

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In summary, a transformer works by using electromagnetic induction to transfer electrical energy from the primary coil to the secondary coil, with the voltage and current being transformed according to the turns ratio. This process allows for the efficient transmission and distribution of electrical power at different voltage levels, making transformers essential in electrical engineering and power systems.

Transformer Formula for Current

The formula to calculate the primary and secondary currents in a transformer is as follows: Primary Current (I₁) = Secondary Current (I₂) x (N₁ / N₂)

Where:

- I₁ is the primary current. - I₂ is the secondary current. - N₁ is the number of turns in the primary coil. - N₂ is the number of turns in the secondary coil.

Transformer Formula for Voltage

The formula to calculate the primary and secondary voltages in a transformer is as follows: Primary Voltage (V₁) = Secondary Voltage (V₂) x (N₁ / N₂)

Where:

- V₁ is the primary voltage. - V₂ is the secondary voltage. - N₁ is the number of turns in the primary coil. - N₂ is the number of turns in the secondary coil.

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Solved Examples Of Transformer Formula

Let's illustrate the use of these formulas with a couple of solved examples: Example 1: Suppose you have a transformer with 1000 turns in the primary coil (N₁) and 200 turns in the secondary coil (N₂). If the secondary current (I₂) is 5 A, what is the primary current (I₁)? Using the formula for primary current: I₁ = I₂ x (N₁ / N₂) I₁ = 5 A x (1000 / 200) I₁ = 25 A So, the primary current is 25 A. Example 2 In another scenario, if the secondary voltage (V₂) is 120 V and the transformer has 300 turns in the primary coil (N₁) and 150 turns in the secondary coil (N₂), what is the primary voltage (V₁)? Using the formula for primary voltage: V₁ = V₂ x (N₁ / N₂) V₁ = 120 V x (300 / 150) V₁ = 240 V So, the primary voltage is 240 V. These formulas are fundamental for understanding the behavior of transformers in electrical circuits. They help in calculating current and voltage relationships between the primary and secondary sides of the transformer, making them crucial in electrical engineering and power distribution. In conclusion, transformers play a vital role in electrical systems, and understanding their formulas is essential for engineers and technicians working with electrical power transmission and distribution. The transformer formulas for current and voltage provide valuable insights into the functioning of these devices, enabling precise calculations and efficient design.

Transformer Formula FAQs

What is a transformer?

 A transformer is an electrical device used to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. It consists of two coils, primary and secondary, and is commonly used to change voltage levels.

What are the primary and secondary coils in a transformer?

The primary coil is the coil connected to the input voltage source, while the secondary coil is connected to the output load. These coils are wound around a core and are essential for the transformer's operation.

What is the purpose of a transformer in electrical circuits?

 Transformers are primarily used to change voltage levels in electrical circuits. They can step up (increase) or step down (decrease) voltage to suit the requirements of various devices and systems.

How do you calculate the turns ratio of a transformer?

The turns ratio of a transformer is calculated by dividing the number of turns in the secondary coil (N₂) by the number of turns in the primary coil (N₁). It is represented as N₂/N₁ and determines the voltage transformation capability of the transformer.
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