Current and Impedance in a Transformer

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the operation of transformers, specifically focusing on an ignition transformer with given primary and secondary voltages, impedance, and efficiency. The original poster seeks assistance with determining the turns ratio, secondary current, and secondary impedance based on the provided values.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the turns ratio and secondary impedance but expresses confusion regarding the application of efficiency and the nature of the secondary voltage. Some participants suggest that the secondary voltage should be assumed to be rms based on the context provided.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the implications of efficiency on current calculations and discussing assumptions regarding the secondary voltage. There is no explicit consensus yet, but guidance has been offered regarding the interpretation of the secondary voltage.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes a lack of detailed information in their textbook regarding transformers, which may impact their understanding of the problem. There is also uncertainty about whether the secondary voltage is rms, which is being addressed in the discussion.

pious&peevish
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My textbook doesn't cover transformers in very much detail at all, so I only have a very vague idea as to how they work...

Homework Statement



The secondary voltage of an ignition transformer in a furnace is 13.9 kV. When the primary operates at an rms voltage of 120 V, the primary impedance is 22.6 Ω and the transformer is 91.1% efficient.
a) What turns ratio is required?
b) What is the current in the secondary?
c) What is the impedance in the secondary?

Homework Equations



V2/V1 = N2/N1 (where N2/N1 is the turns ratio)
V1 * I1 = V2 * I2
V1/I1 = R/(N2/N1)^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I already solved a) correctly, which was just 13.9 kV/120 V (i.e. N2/N1). But besides that, I honestly don't know what else to do. I guess I could start by plugging in 22.6 ohms into the equation for impedance [i.e. I(rms) = V(rms)/Z], but I'm getting completely mixed up. I'm also not sure how efficiency affects the final result...
 
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Efficiency refers to the ratio of V*I power of secondary and primary circuits. So, if you find Iprimary you can find Isecondary and hence the impedance of the secondary circuit.
 
Thanks! It doesn't say whether or not the secondary voltage (13.9 kV) is an rms voltage... should I assume that it is?
 
Yes I think it should be assumed so.
 
pious&peevish said:
Thanks! It doesn't say whether or not the secondary voltage (13.9 kV) is an rms voltage... should I assume that it is?
That's a reasonable assumption, since it says that the primary voltage is rms .
 

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