Autotransformers
An autotransformer, also known as a step-down transformer, is an electrical transformer with only one winding. The winding has at least 3 taps where electrical connections are made.
What exactly is an auto transformer?
An autotransformer is a type of transformer, which has just one winding wound within a laminated core. The functionality of an auto transformer is pretty much similar to two different winding transformers. However, the way the primary winding and secondary winding are connected to each other are different. Based on this understanding, you will be able to end up with getting the right 3 phase auto transformer or variable autotransformer available for purchase out there.
How do step down transformers work?
A step down transformer operates primarily on the electromagnetic induction principle. Faraday's first law of electromagnetism states that a conductor exposed to a fluctuating electromagnetic field will experience an induced current proportional to the rate of flux change. The main and secondary windings of the step down transformer are made up of two coils, which have a strong mutual induction as well as a shared magnetic field. As a result, the secondary winding may experience a current from the main.
What step down transformer do I need?
When you are trying to purchase a step down transformer, you will need to pay attention to a few important factors. One of the most important factors out of them would be the power rating. The power rating of an autotransformer would define the load that you can connect to it, without going beyond the limit.
How to use step down transformer?
A magnetic core, together with primary and secondary windings, make up a step down transformer. More windings are present on the main coil than secondary coil. Most of the conductors used in these coils are composed of copper or aluminum.
The load that consumes the stepped-down current and voltage is linked to the secondary winding via the primary winding, which is linked to the primary voltage. The main winding of the step down transformer receives a push from the applied AC voltage. The magnetic core that wraps around the primary coilexperiences flux as a result of the alternating current inside the primary winding.
With this knowledge in mind, you may purchase a variac autotransformer. The auto transformer price is totally worth when compared to the nature of uses offered with it.
What are the applications of an autotransformer?
The primary application of an autotransformer is to get the desired output voltage as needed by your appliances. Based on the specific requirement, you can buy either a step up or a step down transformer.
When you are getting a 3 phase variac transformer or an autotransformer, you will notice that there are quite a few options available out there to consider.
- Can be used as a method of soft starting induction motors
- You can often see how autotransformers are used in the UK railway system
- In audio applications, tapped autotransformers are used to adapt speakers to constant-voltage distribution systems
- Power applications to interconnect systems operating at different voltages
- Special autotransformers are used on rural power distribution lines so that customers further away receive the same average voltage as ones nearer to the source