How transformers work: An overview

Article By : Steve Subiry

Transformers do not generate electrical power. They transfer electrical power from one AC circuit to another using magnetic coupling.

« Previously: Wired power supply: The basics of magnetic components
 

Having a basic understanding of how transformers work, what they are used for and where they are used provide designers with a starting point for the decision-making process and the topic of this article.

Transformers provide the following basic functions:

• Energy storage
• Step-up or step-down voltages
• Voltages changes
• Multiple outputs
• Isolation

Transformers do not generate electrical power; they transfer electrical power from one AC circuit to another using magnetic coupling. A transformer is a magnetic component with more than one winding that is used to “transform” voltages and currents applied to the primary winding to other voltages and currents present on the secondary windings.

Internally, the number of windings depends upon the amount of voltage isolation required between the primary and secondary circuits. In a power topology, such as a flyback for example, where primary power is supplied by mains, there will be fewer secondary windings to protect the system against the high voltages coming from the primary.

Before selecting magnetic components, designers should know what type of topology the power supply requires. Looking at the watts and input voltage for each topology will steer the decision making process toward the appropriate transformer.

Designers have five basic converter types to choose from as outlined in the table below.

 

Table 1: Basic converter types.
 

Once designers determine what function a transformer will serve and what type of converter it will go into, they can then begin the process of choosing the most appropriate components.

The selection process requires knowledge of at least five specifications before a choice is made:

• Input Voltage
• Output Voltage
• Circuit Topology
• Rated Input and Output Current
• Maximum Duty Cycle at Minimum Input Voltage

With a basic overview, how transformers work and the functions they perform, engineers can start the process of selecting the most appropriate components for their system requirements.

However, this process goes beyond finding the right specifications for any system. Designer should evaluate transformer based on reliability requirements pertinent to each specific application such as computing, automotive, industrial, and medical. Understanding latest advancements in magnetic materials and technology processing should be considered to select the best performing transformer or inductor.

Additionally, the breadth of knowledge and experience in power supply engineering and design is another qualification to consider field application support is also important. Vendor should offer a wide range of both off-the-shelf and custom products to ensure that the most vexing design challenges can be anticipated and addressed.

This article was first published by Planet Analog.

 
« Previously: Wired power supply: The basics of magnetic components