What if a 60Hz Transformer is Connected to a 6Hz Source?

  • Thread starter glasgowkizz
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In summary, if a transformer designed for 60Hz operation is connected to a 6Hz source of the same voltage, the core would saturate and the current would be limited by the winding resistance. This could result in it tripping a circuit breaker or burning out in a short time. The inductance of the transformer's primary prevents it from taking too much current, and reducing the frequency to 6Hz would cause the current to rise to 10 times its original amount. This increase in current could damage the transformer.
  • #1
glasgowkizz
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What would happen if a transformer designed for operation on 60Hz were connected to a 6Hz source of the same voltage?
 
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  • #2
The core would saturate (magnetic) and the current would be limited mainly by the winding resistance. Hence it would either trip a circuit breaker or burn out within a very short time.
 
  • #3
It would probably blow up.

The primary of a transformer has inductance and this is what stops the transformer taking too much current when it is connected to a source of voltage.

The reactance of the transformer primary is given by XL = 2 * pi * F * L
where F is the frequency and L is the inductance.
Reactance is like AC resistance.

If you reduce the frequency to 6 Hz then the reactance will drop to 10 % of what it was before.

So, the current will rise to 10 times what it was before, at least. Mainly it will be limited by the resistance of the wire on the primary winding which is usually very low.
 
  • #4
since frequency is 10 times less hence the inductive reactance of transformer.
so transformer would draw heavy current, may damage.
 
  • #5
Thanks guys!
 
  • #6
(Thread moved to Homework Help, but too late...)
 

1. How does a transformer work?

A transformer works by using electromagnetic induction to transfer energy from one circuit to another. It consists of two or more coils of wire, known as the primary and secondary windings, that are wound around a shared iron core. When an alternating current flows through the primary winding, it creates a changing magnetic field that induces a voltage in the secondary winding, resulting in the transfer of energy.

2. What is the purpose of a transformer?

The main purpose of a transformer is to step up or step down the voltage of an alternating current. This is crucial for the efficient transmission of electricity over long distances, as higher voltages can be transmitted with less loss of energy. Transformers are also used for voltage conversion in electronic devices and to isolate different parts of an electrical circuit.

3. What is the difference between a step-up and a step-down transformer?

A step-up transformer increases the voltage from the primary to the secondary winding, while a step-down transformer decreases the voltage. This is achieved by having a different number of turns in each winding. Step-up transformers are used in power transmission, while step-down transformers are used in household appliances and electronic devices.

4. How do you calculate the efficiency of a transformer?

The efficiency of a transformer is calculated by dividing the output power by the input power and multiplying by 100%. In other words, it is the percentage of energy that is successfully transferred from the primary winding to the secondary winding. The efficiency of a transformer is affected by factors such as the quality of the materials used and the design of the transformer.

5. What are the safety precautions to take when working with transformers?

When working with transformers, it is important to follow safety precautions to avoid electric shocks and other hazards. These include wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, ensuring the transformer is de-energized before working on it, and following proper procedures for handling and storing the transformer. It is also important to regularly inspect and maintain transformers to ensure they are in good working condition and to identify any potential hazards.

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