A Power Transformer is a type of electrical transformer used to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction, typically at high voltage levels. It is designed to step up (increase) or step down (decrease) voltage levels in power transmission networks, especially for long-distance electricity transmission from power generation plants to substations.
A power transformer operates on the principle of Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary coil, it creates a magnetic field that induces a voltage in the secondary coil. The turns ratio between the primary and secondary windings determines whether the transformer steps the voltage up or down.
Feature | Power Transformer | Distribution Transformer |
---|---|---|
Voltage | >33 kV | <33 kV |
Application | Transmission | Distribution |
Efficiency | Max at full load | Max at 50–70% load |
Size | Larger | Smaller |
Operation | Continuous | Intermittent |