An electrical transformer, simply called as transformer, is a static electrical machine which is used in an electrical power system for changing the levels of alternating voltage and alternating current. A transformer has many advantages and disadvantages over other types of voltage step-up (increase) or step-down (decrease) devices. This tutorial lists all the major advantages and disadvantages of transformer.
Advantages of Transformer
A transformer has numerous advantages over other types of voltage transformation devices. Some of the important advantages of transformers are explained below:
Simple Construction and Working:
An electrical transformer is simple to design and construct. It also has a simple working principle of mutual inductance between two coils. It has a simple design as it consists of a magnetic core and two windings wound around the magnetic core.
Increase or Decrease the Voltage:
The transformer can increase or decrease the voltage levels without changing the power and frequency at the input and output terminals.
Long Distance Transmission of Power:
Transformers made this possible to transmit electrical power over long distances. As a transformer allows us to increase the voltage of the electrical supply to any desirable level.
Economical:
Transformers are the most economical methods of increasing or decreasing the voltage levels in a power system.
Different Voltage Levels:
Transformers can have multiple tapping points to obtain different voltage levels for different applications.
No Moving Parts:
Transformers are completely static electrical machines and have no moving parts. Hence, the mechanical losses in the transformers are minimum among all types of electrical machines.
High Efficiency:
The efficiency of a transformer can be up to 98%. This high efficiency is due to low energy losses, fewer mechanical losses, etc.
Versatility:
A transformer is a versatile machine, as it can be used for different purposes like electrical isolation, step-up and step-down of voltage, etc.
Voltage Reliability:
By regulating the voltage to a desired value, transformers help in improving the voltage stability and reliability of the supply system.
Electrical Insolation:
The transformer transfers electrical energy with the help of a magnetic field. Hence, it provides a complete electrical isolation between the input and output.
Disadvantages of Transformers
Apart from the advantages, transformers also have several disadvantages which are described below:
Works only on Alternating Current Supply:
Transformers operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction which is only possible with alternating current supply. Therefore, transformers can work only on alternating current supply and they cannot be used to transform the DC voltage.
Energy Losses:
The transformer itself has several types of energy losses. Hence, there is a wastage of electrical energy within the transformer which reduces the overall efficiency of the supply system.
Heavy and Larger Size:
Transformers used in distribution and transmission systems are generally of large size and have a heavyweight. Hence, they are difficult to handle and port from one place to another.
Voltage Drop:
Transformers have a certain amount of internal impedance. Hence, a transformer has an internal voltage drop as well.
Cooling and Insulation:
When a transformer operates it produces a significant amount of heat. Therefore, proper cooling is required in a transformer to obtain maximum efficiency. Also, heavy electrical stress is established between the electrical components of the transformer. Therefore, to avoid any kind of electrical failure, a proper insulation must be provided.
Conclusion
So, this is all about the advantages and disadvantages of transformers. A transformer has several advantages and disadvantages. It is the most widely used electrical machine in power system for voltage transformation purpose.