Explain about Step Up Transformer

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transformer

A transformer is a static electrical device that transfers electrical energy between circuits. A transformer changes the voltage of alternating current.

The transformer uses magnetic induction and has no moving parts. Step-up is the transformer’s main function. Based on windings, these come in

  • Step Up transformers & 
  • Step Down transformers.

The step-up transformer raises voltage, whereas the step-down transformer lowers it.

VA, KVA, or MVA ratings can be used for transformers.

Step-up transformers are discussed in this post.

What is Step Up Transformer?

A step-up transformer is a specific type of power transformer that is designed to increase the output voltage while simultaneously keeping the current flow constant and free from any fluctuations.

This particular type of transformer is typically put to use in the transmission of electrical power as well as the generation of electrical power at power stations.

This transformer has two windings, which are termed as the primary and secondary windings respectively.

When opposed to the secondary winding, the primary winding has significantly lower number of turns.

step-up transformer 1

Symbol for a Step-Up Transformer

step-up transformer 2

Construction of the Step-Up Transformer

The step-up transformer can be constructed with

1). Core and

2). Windings.

1). Core

A high-permeable material can be used to design the transformer’s core. This core material that allows the magnetic flux to flow through with less loss.

The core material has a high permeability when compared to the surrounding air. As a result, the magnetic field lines (magnetization) within the core material will be constrained.

Thus, by lowering transformer losses, transformer efficiency can be improved.

Magnetic cores allow magnetic flux to flow (pass) across them and also cause core losses such as eddy current losses due to hysteresis.

As a result, hysteresis and low co-activity materials are used to create magnetic cores similar to the ferrite (or) silicon steel.

To keep eddy current losses to a minimum, the transformer core can be laminated to prevent core heating. When the core is heated, some electrical energy is lost, and transformer efficiency can be reduced.

2). Windings

The windings in the step-up transformer will support in transmitting the current wound on the transformer.

These windings are primarily intended to keep the transformer cool and to withstand test and operational conditions.

The wire density on the primary winding side is thick (heavy) but includes fewer turns.

Likewise, the density of the wire at the secondary winding is thin (lightweight) but includes a large number of turns.

This can be designed in such a way that the primary winding carries less (low)  power voltage than the secondary winding.

The transformer’s winding material is aluminium and copper. Although the cost of aluminium is less than that of copper, the transformer life can be extended by using copper material.

There are two types of laminations available in transformers to reduce eddy currents:

  • EE type and
  • EI type

Working of the Step-up Transformer

step up transformer

The step-up transformer has two voltage symbols, V1 and V2, which stand for the input and output. The transformer’s windings have two turns, denoted N1 and N2.

Here, they have a primary input winding and a secondary output winding.

Since the primary has less turns of wire than the secondary, the output voltage is greater than the input voltage.

After AC enters a transformer, it begins to flow in one direction, then stops, then starts to flow in the opposite direction.

A magnetic field will be produced close to the winding as a result of the current. Whenever the direction of the current is changed, the magnetic poles will change the direction.

The windings receive their voltage from a magnetic field that is induced in them.

To a similar extend, once the secondary coil is situated in a changing magnetic field, voltage will be induced within the coil itself; this phenomenon is known as mutual induction.

Therefore, the alternating current in the main winding creates a revolving magnetic field, inducing a voltage in the secondary.

components of transformer

V2/V1 = N2/N1

Where,

V2 – Voltage in the secondary coil

V1 – Voltage is the primary coil

N2 – Turns on the secondary coil

N1 – Turns on the primary coil

Different factors selecting the Step-Up Transformer

When choosing a step-up transformer, there are a number of factors that need to be considered and checked, they are:

1). Transformers Efficiency

2). Number of Phases

3). Transformers Rating

4). Cooling Medium

5). Material of Windings

step up transformer

1). Transformers Efficiency

When determining the price of a transformer, the level of the transformer’s efficiency has an important factor in the selection.

Because transformers are intended for use twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, any variation in their level of efficiency has the potential to have a significant effect on the prices at which they are supplied.

The higher the level of efficiency, the greater the increase in cost.

2). Number of Phases

The next characteristic that can differentiate the prices of transformers is the number of phases, depending on if the transformer is a single-phase (or) three-phase type.

3). Transformers Rating

The rate of the transformer is mostly determined by its rating; hence the rating of a transformer is an important factor. Transformers with the same rating but made by different manufacturers might be purchased at varying prices.

4). Cooling Medium

The cooling medium is the other major component that determines the price of the transformer, and this factor is just as important as whether the transformer is cooled by air or oil. Transformers that are cooled by air are far more cost-effective than those that are cooled by oil.

5). Material of Windings

Another factor that has a significance in determining the cost of the transformer is the kind of material used for the windings.

Copper-wound transformers are more expensive than their aluminium-wound counterparts, which are far more cost-effective.

Advantages of the Step-Up Transformer

  • They are utilised in both residential homes as well as public organizations.
  • Efficiency.
  • Work Performed Constantly
  • Instant Start.
  • Power Transmitter.
  • Maintenance.

Disadvantages of the Step-Up Transformer

  • A cooling system is required.
  • Compatible with alternating current.
  • These transformers occupy a huge proportion and magnitude.

Applications of the Step-Up Transformer

  • In order to maintain a consistent voltage throughout a range from low to high, electronic devices like inverters and voltage stabilisers depends on transformers.
  • Its primary function is to facilitate the distribution of electrical energy.
  • This transformer is utilised to lower the high voltage that is present in power transmission lines that are generated by generators.
  • This transformer is employed in a variety of applications, including the operation of electric motors, X-ray equipment, microwave ovens, and so on.
  • It is utilised in the process of improving electrical and electronic apparatus.

Conclusion

Step up transformers are an essential component of the power generation & transmission systems. They have a major function in transferring power from generating stations to remote locations.

Because these generating stations are typically located far from populated areas and electricity must be transferred to the point of utility, transformers become an essential component of the electrical system.

In this transformer, the secondary winding has a greater number of coils than the primary winding. As a result, the wire in the primary coil is stronger than the wire in the secondary coil.

These transformers are essential in transmission & power generation systems because they transmit power from generating stations to remote areas.