- #1
me2010
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why transformer is a machine?
Is a Transformer Considered a Machine?
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SUMMARY
A transformer is not classified as a traditional machine, as it does not perform mechanical work. However, academic syllabi at various universities categorize transformers alongside electric machines such as generators and motors due to their functional similarities in adapting power sources to loads. The discussion highlights the conceptual overlap between transformers and mechanical devices like levers and gearboxes, emphasizing the trade-off between voltage and current analogous to force and velocity. Understanding these relationships can enhance discussions in educational contexts.
PREREQUISITES- Basic understanding of electrical engineering concepts
- Familiarity with the principles of transformers and electric machines
- Knowledge of mechanical systems and their functions
- Awareness of academic classifications in engineering education
- Research the classification of electric machines in engineering curricula
- Explore the principles of transformer operation and efficiency
- Study the mathematical relationships in electrical and mechanical systems
- Investigate the design and application of gear ratios in mechanical systems
Electrical engineering students, educators in mechanical and electrical disciplines, and professionals involved in power systems and machinery design will benefit from this discussion.
- #2
tiny-tim
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Welcome to PF!
Hi me2010! Welcome to PF!
That's a little vague … I'm not sure what you mean.
What is the context?
Is this part of a larger question, or part of a longer quotation from a book?
Hi me2010! Welcome to PF!
me2010 said:
That's a little vague … I'm not sure what you mean.
What is the context?
Is this part of a larger question, or part of a longer quotation from a book?
- #3
sophiecentaur
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Strictly, a machine is a mechanism for doing mechanical work. So a transformer isn't a true machine.
- #4
Adjuster
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I would have agreed with the last poster, until looking this up on the Web. It seems that more than one University syllabus groups transformers with other electric machines (such as generators and motors and indeed motor/generator combinations, which might be where they see the commonality). Could this be a light-current versus heavy current thing - maybe the power guys have always classified transformers that way?
If the original poster attends one of these institutions, he/she might get more credit for describing the common points between a transformer and other electrical machines, than arguing semantics with the teachers. After all, I suppose you could regard a transformer as having something in common with a lever or a gearbox. Similar rules apply, in that you can trade voltage for current (compared to force versus velocity), but their product can only be the same at most, actually always less due to losses.
- #5
sophiecentaur
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There are certainly some mathematical forms in common AB=C. But that applies to gases, dynamics and chemistry as much as to levers and transformers.
People might just be a bit 'approximate' in their use of terms.
- #6
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With a transformer you can trade off between two quantities at a given fixed power. Question for OP: which two quantities am I referring to?
- #7
Adjuster
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Hello sophiecentaur.
A transformer is deliberately designed, with a ratio to chosen to adapt a source to its load. The same is true for a gear ratio selected to match an engine to its (mechanical) load.
In those other fields you have mentioned, are there similarly designed adapting systems? Here I have to confess to my ignorance of these subjects.
- #8
sophiecentaur
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I take the point about machines performing a 'matching' function. I guess we are just seeing a change of word usage, along the same lines as 'search engine'.