A transformer is an electrical device that is used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another through electromagnetic induction. It consists of two or more coils of wire, known as the primary and secondary windings, which are wrapped around a common iron core.
A transformer works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary winding, it creates a changing magnetic field around the iron core. This changing magnetic field induces an alternating current in the secondary winding, which is then transmitted to the load.
The main purpose of a transformer is to step up or step down the voltage of an alternating current. This allows for efficient transmission of electrical energy over long distances, as higher voltages can be transmitted with less energy loss. Transformers are also used to isolate circuits and provide galvanic isolation.
The power transmitted through a transformer can be calculated using the formula: P = V x I, where P is power in watts, V is voltage in volts, and I is current in amps. This formula applies to both the primary and secondary circuits, and the power in the secondary circuit is equal to the power in the primary circuit.
The two main types of transformers are step-up transformers and step-down transformers. Step-up transformers increase the voltage from the primary to the secondary winding, while step-down transformers decrease the voltage. Other types of transformers include autotransformers, isolation transformers, and instrument transformers.