Transformer copper loss calculation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the copper loss in a transformer at full load, specifically focusing on the primary and secondary winding resistances and the transformer's VA rating. Participants are addressing a homework problem that involves understanding the relationship between primary and secondary currents, as well as the implications of the transformer's specifications.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the primary winding resistance as 125 Ohms and the secondary as 0.7 Ohms, seeking to calculate copper loss at full load.
  • Another participant suggests that the VA rating of the transformer (28 VA) is crucial for calculating the secondary current.
  • There is confusion regarding the calculation of primary current, with one participant asserting that it is calculated as I=V/R (240/125), while others challenge this approach.
  • One participant calculates the secondary current based on the VA rating and secondary voltage, arriving at 2.33 Amps.
  • Another participant questions whether the turns ratio affects copper or core loss, indicating uncertainty about the relationship between these factors.
  • Concerns are raised about the assumptions made regarding the load and whether it is purely resistive.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct approach to calculating the currents or the implications of the transformer's specifications. Multiple competing views remain regarding the definitions and calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion related to insufficient data regarding the unloaded secondary voltage and assumptions about the nature of the load. The relationship between primary and secondary currents is not fully resolved, and there is ambiguity about the impact of turns ratio on losses.

tommoturbo
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Hello guys have a little problem



see if anyone can help

Homework Statement



Q the primary winding resistance is 125Ohms, Secondary is 0.7ohms calulate the transformers copper loss at full load.



now the transformers name plate is 240V 50Hz 28VA the earlier question explains it is a step down transformer delivering 12V



Homework Equations




so primary Current = Vp/Rp 240/125 = 1.92A



now I am not sure what figures to use to calc the current in secondary winding at full load





i get values from 40A 38.4A



and using formula Full load current = VA rating/primary voltage i get .116A



i need Is value for copper loss formula



Copper loss W= Ip(sq)xRp+Is(sq)+Rs
Copper loss W= 1.92(sq)x125+Is(sq)+0.7 don't know the equation for secondary current Is














any help appreciated
 
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First of all, you're not calculating the primary current correctly. Hint: what does 28 VA mean?

Once you have that, remember that power in = power out to work out the secondary full-load current.
 
thanks for the reply but I am lost now.

not entirely sure what to do with the 28VA but thought it was used somehow to calc secondary current

thought i did the priomary current ok though
I=V/R 240/125


am i on the wrong track?
 
Very much so. Let's start at a more basic level, then:

What is VA? What does it mean and how is it calculated?
 
"The VA rating is the math formula used in determining the amperage at a given voltage."

So my secondary voltage of 12 volts from a 28VA transformer will produce 2.33 amps...?

e.g., 28 VA ÷ 12 Volts = 2.33 Amps. am i correct.
 
Right. Now, what do you know about the relationship of primary current to secondary current?
 
does this apply to the primary current also


primary voltage of 240volts from a 28VA transformer will produce .116 amps...

e.g., 28 VA ÷ 240 Volts = .116 Amps.

thanks for you help in this
 
You've got it! Now you can plug those values into I2R to find the primary and secondary copper watt losses.
 
Brilliant thanks for the advice

:)
 
  • #10
hey guys
i have a doubt
will turns ratio affect the amount of copper loss or core loss
i am a little bit confused in ds matr
 
  • #11
tommoturbo said:
Hello guys have a little problem
see if anyone can help

Homework Statement


Q the primary winding resistance is 125Ohms, Secondary is 0.7ohms calulate the transformers copper loss at full load.
now the transformers name plate is 240V 50Hz 28VA the earlier question explains it is a step down transformer delivering 12V

Insufficient data.

Is 12 VRMS the unloaded secondary voltage?
Is this an imaginary transformer with the unloaded primary power dissipation equal to zero?
I don't know if this one counts, but are we to pretend that 'full load' is a purely resistive load?
 
Last edited:

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