Small-sized transformers are in use for countless electronic products and devices, from camcorders to air conditioning systems. The small size transformers used in the electronics dominion come with precise engineering, low breakdown rate and longevity. These handy devices that are integrated into electronic circuits to get the right voltage are energy-efficient and flexible.
Current flow is steady in DC and so is the magnetic field. There is no voltage induced on the secondary as the field is not changing and the transformer just looks like a simple coil of resistive wire to the power supply. So, transformers do not function with DC currents. Based on the power rating, the transformer market is divided into small power, medium power and large power categories. Among them, the small power segment is at the forefront of the market due to its many advantages such as efficient three windings, single phase, special cooling, and low noise production. They are commonly used in all kinds of home appliances. It requires low voltage (approximately 5V to 50V) to operate, having low current consumption rate.
Basic characteristics of small size transformers
Core: The main difference between the different types of transformers is the number of turns used in the core and the primary and secondary coils. Advancements in the domain of electronics have stimulated changes in the use and design of new sorts of core materials in small-sized transformers.
Windings: The conductor material used in the windings of small transformers may be copper or aluminum. The conductor can be in the form of foil, strip or continuously transmitted cable.
Insulating Oil: The oil in these transformers is used for its chemical properties and power. It has high insulating properties, which helps in reducing power interruptions. It also helps to dissipate the heat of the transformer for cooling purposes, preached by Constant Voltage Transformers Manufacturers. In addition, it prevents oxidation, ensuring minimal impact on the environment by preventing carbon emissions.
Advantages of small-sized transformers
- Have the capability to modify the voltage up or down
- Top notch efficiency
- Less capital costs
- Easy to increase or decrease the level of voltage
- Easy to move
- No moving parts
- No starting time
- Isolation capability
- Low maintenance costs
- Easy to remove and add
- Less monitoring required
Classification of small-sized transformers
Audio Transformers: Operates at frequencies from 20Hz to 20kHz. They are the most commonly used step-up and step-by-step transformers in the electronics industry. They are used exclusively in audio-related applications, where impedance adjustment is required and almost zero reactance is given. Audio transformers have different primary and secondary coils that can be disconnected or center tapped.
Pulse Transformers: These are small size transformers that are mostly used in electronic devices. They basically isolate the digital load circuit and provide pulses of constant amplitude to it.
Toroidal Transformers: These are up to 50% smaller and lighter than other conventional transformers. They have a simple cabinet design and their mechanics are not complicated. Only one center screw is required so they can be easily mounted, while other transformers require four screws. Therefore, it reduces assembly time.
RF Transformers: Used for radio frequency ranges from 30kHz to 30MHz. Step up or down voltage is widely used in electronic devices. They are also used to separate DC from two circuits simultaneously while maintaining AC continuity. In addition, they are required for impedance adjustment so that they can provide maximum power. These are effective in reducing and suppressing unwanted signal reflection. RF transformers come in surface mount packages, connector packages, and other configurations.
According to OLTC Transformers manufacturers, there are two main types of small transformers – iron core and ferrite core. Iron core transformers are commonly used for small DC power supplies, as well as for various electronic devices. But these are being replaced by higher frequency switched ferrite core transformers, which are smaller in size, less expensive and more efficient. Another application is voltage sensing, which uses as small a transformer as possible to release the voltage needed to read electronic circuits. This is because the mains are isolated from the high voltage and step into a voltage that is sufficient to maintain the electronic circuit. Ferrite core transformers are used in DC-DC converters, SMPs power supplies, and frequency and voltage converters.
Distribution Transformer manufacturers add that ferrite core transformers can only be used at high frequencies (usually in the kHz range), therefore the 50Hz main supply is first switched to DC and then switched to high frequency AC to use these transformers. Therefore, the complexity of the devices increases. But now chips are available to perform this function and are commonly used in adapters, chargers for mobiles, tablets and PCs etc.
Benefits of small sized transformers
When it comes to capacity, small-sized transformers rank high. Another factor that makes them more attractive is that they are inexpensive. Smaller sized transformers are lighter and require less space. Their small and compact size makes them ideal for integrating and integrating anywhere in electrical and electronic products. They can often be integrated directly into a light fixture or other electronic device instead of being installed as a separate device. Even when they cannot be properly integrated into devices, their small size allows them to be successfully hidden.
Smaller transformers have lower electromagnetic fields compared to other transformers and therefore operate more efficiently. Therefore, they are considered to be the right choice for sensitive electronic systems. Transformers have noise problems, which are caused by high magnetostriction, but small variations like toroidal transformers do not emit any disturbing noise. Uniform windings around the core ensure about no air gaps and loose sheets that tremble, pointed out by Industrial Transformer Manufacturers . In addition, they are made from a continuous strip of high grade steel, which helps to reduce noise. Hence, they are preferred in hospitals that require a less noisy environment.
The installation process of small transformers is too effortless. Due to their small size, they do not take much time to assemble and install. Most small transformers offer significant energy savings, so it doesn’t affect the environment.
Safekeeping guidance
To ensure that the transformers provide high performance over a long period of time, comprehensive maintenance is required. Small transformers do not require heavy maintenance like other transformers. They come with a few switches (about ten times less), which reduces complexity. The bulk capacitor is not used because intermediate DC-conversion phases are not required.
Small-sized transformers do not require as much attention as other devices, but care and maintenance should not be neglected. AsFurance Transformer manufacturersput it that small-sized transformers are low-maintenance, but can be cleaned and dusted regularly to manage the pace of heat transmit to the atmosphere.
