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This article provides a general introduction to the fundamental concepts behind transformers. Transformer design is covered in depth in the guide to designing. However, the concepts introduced here are required for design.
This chapter does not introduce the theory behind transformers, and should be read after the theory chapters, which will help the reader understand the theory behind a particular type of transformer.
The most basic thing about a transformer is that it can be a fixed structure that's connected to the rest of the load (also called primary). The second basic thing is that the load can be moved around. This means that the transformer can actually be divided into two sections: primary and secondary. This may seem counterintuitive, but is the key to understanding the operation of transformers.
Transformers come in all sizes, and can range from as little as an ampere to thousands of amperes. The transformers that are most commonly used are the standardized transformers that are available in construction catalogs, which are small transformers that handle hundreds of amperes. These transformers are made up of coils wound on small cores.
The greatest value of transformers is that they can be designed to provide a constant voltage, or current, regardless of the load. They do this by effectively providing a certain amount of power, and using that power to make up for any variations in the load. Transformers used in high-power systems are usually large and very heavy, but they are very reliable.
Mechanical principles
Inside a transformer, two coils are arranged in a certain way that allows the transformer to do its magic. The two coils, the primary and the secondary, will be connected in series and in a specific way. The primary will be connected to the source of energy, which in this case is called the primary side. The secondary coil will be connected to the load, which in this case is called the secondary side. Both coils must be wound in the same direction, and the number of turns on each coil will determine the amount of energy that can be transferred through the transformer.
The winding is much more complicated than it sounds. In fact, the number of turns is one of the most important design parameters for the transformer. For example, if a primary coil is 1 m long and has 10 turns, then the ac619d1d87
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