Transformer Wire Size Calculator

Calculator

What is Transformer Wire Size?

A transformer wire size is the diameter of the wire utilized in the structure of a transformer. 

The size of the wire has a direct impact on the transformer’s efficiency and performance. Larger wires can carry more electrical current, lowering power losses and increasing efficiency. 

However, they increase the transformer’s size, weight, and cost. 

As a result, selecting the optimum wire size in transformer design is essential for balancing performance, cost, & size concerns.

Calculating the optimum transformer wire size is essential for ensuring that electrical systems run efficiently and safely. 

In this post, we will provide a basic and useful calculator for determining transformer wire size. 

The calculator is implemented, with a user-friendly online calculator for rapid and accurate computations.

How to Calculate Transformer Wire Size?

To utilize the Transformer Wire Size Calculator, take the following steps:

Enter the voltage (V), current (I), and wire length (L) values into the appropriate text areas.

Click the “Calculate” button to get the transformer’s suggested wire size.

Transformer Wire Size Formula

Transformer Wire Size = (2 X V X I X L X K)/1000

Where

V – Voltage

I – Current

L – Length in meters

K – Constant Factor

What is constant factor (K) in this formula?

The constant factor (K) changes based on the system’s characteristics, although it is usually fixed at 1.732 for three-phase systems.

When it comes to transformers, can I utilize the calculator for both AC & DC?

The calculator can be used for both constant current (AC) and direct current (DC) transformers.

Solved Example

If a transformer has 230 V, 5 A, and a 50 m wire length, what is the calculated wire size using a constant factor of 1.732?

Given:

V – 230 V

I – 5 A

L – 50 m

Solution:

Transformer Wire Size = (2 X V X I X L X K)/1000

Transformer Wire Size = (2 X 230 X 5 X 50 X 1.732)/1000

Answer:

Transformer Wire Size = 199.18 mm²

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Factors affecting Transformer Wire Size

Length

• A longer wire may increase the amount of heat produced by a transformer, leading to overheating and a shorter lifespan.

Insulation

• Insulation must withstand electrical pressures & temperatures from wire length and current traveling through the transformer.