In the context of electrical engineering, transformers are devices that transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction. They consist of two main components: the primary winding and the secondary winding. Winding refers to the coiled wire loops through which current flows, creating a magnetic field that induces voltage in the other winding. There are several types of windings used in transformers:
Single-Phase Transformers:
Shell-Type (Core Type) Transformer: In this design, the windings surround a substantial portion of the core. The primary and secondary windings are usually placed on separate limbs of the core, with the magnetic flux linking both windings. This design provides better mechanical support and improved short-circuit withstand capability.
Core-Type (Shell Type) Transformer: In this design, the core surrounds a substantial portion of the windings. The windings are usually wound concentrically around the core limbs. This design provides better cooling and more efficient space utilization.
Three-Phase Transformers:
Three-Phase Core-Type Transformer: Similar to the core-type single-phase transformer, this design has three sets of primary and secondary windings distributed around the core limbs. It is used for three-phase power systems and provides efficient space utilization.
Three-Phase Shell-Type Transformer: In this design, three sets of windings are wound around the core limbs. The windings are placed on separate limbs, providing better cooling and mechanical support. This design is used for higher power applications.
Auto-Transformers:
An auto-transformer has only one winding that serves as both the primary and secondary winding. A portion of this winding acts as a common winding, and different voltage levels are tapped from different points on the winding. Auto-transformers are more compact and efficient than traditional transformers but provide less isolation between the primary and secondary circuits.
Winding Configurations:
Delta-Wye (Δ-Y) Transformer: This configuration involves connecting the primary winding in a delta (Δ) arrangement and the secondary winding