Transformer Efficiency - Max & Calculation

In summary, transformer efficiency is a complex topic that depends on several factors such as wire thickness, core path length, and temperature. The type of transformer also plays a role in determining efficiency. Thicker wire can reduce resistive losses but also increases core weight and magnetizing current. A general rule is that the core temperature should be similar to the winding temperature for optimal efficiency.
  • #1
Passionate Eng
36
1
hello there
i have some confusion about transformer efficiency
when it is max?
and how it is calculated in different loading conditions e.g. at 80% of full load or at given PF
 
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  • #2
Passionate Eng said:
hello there
i have some confusion about transformer efficiency
when it is max?
and how it is calculated in different loading conditions e.g. at 80% of full load or at given PF
What reading have you been doing about this so far? Can you post links to what you have been reading?

And what kind of transformers are you asking about. High voltage, high power transmission line transformers in power distribution systems? 50/60Hz power transformers in appliances? High frequency DC-DC switching power supply transformers?
 
  • #3
Passionate Eng said:
i have some confusion about transformer efficiency
That confusion is not surprising.

Thicker wire has less resistive losses, but then needs to be longer and fills more aperture in the core. The core path length is then greater so weight of core is greater. You might think that heavier transformers are more efficient, but they actually cost more up front and need greater magnetising current, even when operating idle.

For fixed frequency operation the material and cross section of the magnetic path is a critical parameter that determines the current limit due to saturation. A good rule of thumb is that when operating, the temperature of the magnetic core should be similar to the temperature of the conductive windings. Both those temperatures can be reduced by spending more money up front, but the economics are optimised when heat generation is similar in each.
 
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1. What is transformer efficiency?

Transformer efficiency is a measure of how well a transformer can transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another. It is expressed as a percentage and is calculated by dividing the output power by the input power.

2. How is transformer efficiency calculated?

Transformer efficiency is calculated by dividing the output power by the input power and multiplying by 100%. The output power is the power delivered to the load and the input power is the power supplied to the transformer.

3. What is the maximum efficiency of a transformer?

The maximum efficiency of a transformer is 100%. This means that all of the electrical energy supplied to the transformer is successfully transferred to the load without any losses.

4. What factors affect transformer efficiency?

There are several factors that can affect transformer efficiency including the quality of the materials used, the design of the transformer, and the operating conditions such as temperature and load. Higher quality materials and better design can result in higher efficiency.

5. Why is it important to have a high efficiency transformer?

A high efficiency transformer can save energy and reduce costs. It also helps to reduce the environmental impact of energy production. In addition, high efficiency transformers are more reliable and can have a longer lifespan compared to low efficiency transformers.

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