Understanding the Components of a Transformer and Their Functions
Electrical.KelasTeknisi | A transformer is an essential electrical device familiar to professionals in the power industry.
For readers who are new to electrical systems, the term may be unfamiliar. "Trafo" is short for transformator, a device used to change voltage levels in power systems.
As a critical element of the electrical power system, a transformer is made up of several key components that determine its performance and reliability.
Below, Kelas Teknisi explains the main components found in a transformer and their roles.
Key Components of a Transformer
1. Iron Core
The iron core is a primary component that guides the magnetic flux produced by current in the windings. Cores are typically built from thin laminated steel sheets insulated from each other to minimize eddy current losses that cause excessive heating.
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| Iron core of a transformer |
2. Transformer Windings
Windings in a transformer consist of insulated wire coils. There are two main types of windings: the primary winding and the secondary winding. Windings are insulated from the iron core and between turns using insulating materials such as special insulation paper, pressboard, or other suitable insulating materials.
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| Transformer windings |
3. Transformer Oil
Transformer oil acts as both a cooling medium and a liquid insulator. This oil is composed of hydrocarbon compounds, including aromatic, naphthenic, and paraffinic fractions, which help dissipate heat from the windings and core while preserving the insulating properties inside the transformer.
4. Bushing
Bushings connect transformer windings to the external power network and serve as an insulator between conductors and the transformer tank or earth. In capacitive bushings, a test terminal (such as a center tap) is provided to allow condition testing of the bushing, for example tan delta or power factor testing.
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| Transformer bushing image |
5. Conservator Tank
The conservator tank serves as an expansion space for transformer oil when temperature rises. To maintain oil quality, incoming air passes through a breather filled with silica gel that absorbs moisture so water vapor does not contaminate the oil and degrade insulation performance. A Buchholz relay is fitted on oil-filled transformers to detect gas accumulation caused by internal faults.
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| Conservator tank image |
6. Tap Changer
A tap changer is used to adjust the winding ratio so the output voltage can be regulated or compensated during variations in input voltage. There are on-load tap changers (OLTC) that operate while the transformer is energized, and off-load tap changers that must be operated with the transformer de-energized.
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| Tap changer image |
7. Dehydrating Breather
A dehydrating breather is fitted to the air passage between the conservator and the atmosphere. It contains silica gel that absorbs moisture from incoming air so the oil is not contaminated with water during temperature-driven air exchange.
8. Indicators
Transformers are equipped with various indicators to monitor condition, such as oil level indicators to check oil height, thermometers to monitor oil or winding temperature, and alarms or other indicators depending on the design. These instruments help ensure the transformer operates within safe limits.
9. Protection Devices
To safeguard the transformer and maintain reliable operation, protection devices such as Buchholz relays, pressure-relief relays, temperature relays, and other protective equipment are installed. These devices detect abnormal conditions and prevent further damage to the transformer.
10. Auxiliary Equipment
In addition to primary components, auxiliary equipment such as fire suppression systems, SCADA-based monitoring systems, and other accessories may be installed to support safe and efficient transformer operation.
Those are the key components typically found in a transformer. While additional parts and accessories exist, this list provides a clear overview of the essential elements that determine a transformer's function and reliability.
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