A transformer is one of the most commonly used electrical instruments. It is the reason why we are able to use electrical appliances the way we do. Even unwittingly, you depend on these transformers in your day to day life. Before we proceed on to its applications we will first try to gain answers to two important questions – what is a step up transformer and how does a step-up transformer work?
Also Read: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Step-up Transformer
Any transformer basically consists of two windings and a core. The two windings are known as primary and secondary windings. A step-up transformer converts a low voltage high current input to a high voltage low current output using the principles of magnetic induction. The alternating electric field in the primary winding induces a varying magnetic flux in the core. This, in turn, results in alternating current being induced in the secondary winding. If the number of windings in the secondary coil is higher than those in the primary winding, the output voltage will be higher than the input voltage.
Now that we know how a transformer works, let us have a look at its life applications.
Applications of Step-up Transformer
Given below are the applications of step-up transformers in real life:
Electric power distribution
The electricity that is generated has to travel miles before it reaches your home. Since the conditions are not ideal, there is a loss of power along these lines. This loss is directly proportional to the square of the current traveling through the lines. The power of the electricity being generated is a product of high current and low voltage. The losses that would occur as a result would make it impossible to transmit electricity to any place that is far away from the generating station.
However, a step-up transformer can transform this low voltage electricity into a high voltage low current electricity. This current will then not suffer a loss that high. This makes transformers a crucial part of the power distribution network.
Starting electrical appliances
Even though the electricity being transmitted has a high voltage, it is stepped down when it is supplied to your home. While this is done to make it suitable for general use, there are certain appliances like electrical motors, microwaves, X-ray machines etc. that require a high voltage to start. A step-up transformer is used to convert the existing power supply to the desired voltage. This transformer is usually present as a part of the appliance itself. However, some appliances like X-ray machines sometimes require an external transformer.
For devices manufactured in another country
The power supply limit in Canada is a 120V, 60Hz supply. However, this is not a universal value. Some countries have their own limits. If you buy any electrical device from a country, it will be designed as per the specifications in that country. In case you have purchased any electrical appliance from a country whose supply voltage is higher than 120V, you will need to use a step-up transformer to convert your voltage to a level that is suitable for the appliance.
Buy a Transformer Today
As evident from its applications, a step-up transformer is an integral part of your life. Sometimes its use may be obvious, such as in the power distribution system and sometimes it may not be so obvious. But, whether you notice it or not, it is responsible for the smooth functioning of all your electrical devices.
As such, it is important you get your transformer from a trusted manufacturer with a good track record. ElectPower is one of the most trusted and well-established transformer manufacturers in Canada. If you are looking to purchase a step-up transformer, then you should definitely consider getting yours from ElectPower.
