NEET UG » NEET UG Study Material » Physics » Principle of DC Transformer

Principle of DC Transformer

Transformers are electronic devices that transfer an electric current from one part of the circuit to another. This article explains the different parts of a dc transformer.

Transformers are important electronic devices; they are used to supply an amount of electricity from one electric circuit to another; in this transaction, there are no changes in the frequency of the flowing electric charge. Windings, insulated materials, conservators, etc, are parts of a transformer. These parts play an essential role in the functions of the DC transformer. In addition, transformers are extensively used in various electronic devices; the following paragraphs will explain what a dc transformer is, its applications, and its working principles.

Transformers

A transformer is defined as an electric device that transforms the electric current from one electric circuit to a different electric circuit without making any changes in the frequency of the current. A transformer is also considered a static electric device because, unlike generators, transformers do not have a moving part. The transformers work on the principle of mutual induction under a magnetic field.

Over the years, transformers have evolved as a major industrial tool; these devices make it easy and safe to supply electricity from one circuit to another. As a result, the introduction of transformers has revolutionised many countries’ industrial growth and power supply. 

Different types of transformers

A transformer can be classified based on various parameters, such as its usage, construction, and purpose; a transformer may be as small as a mobile phone adapter and even can be used in supplying electricity to the huge populations of a metro city.

There are different types of transformers; they are:

  1. Step-up transformer
  2. Step-down transformer
  3. DC-DC transformer
  4. AC-DC transformer
  5. DC-AC transformer
  6. AC-AC transformer

DC transformers

Let us now understand what a DC transformer is. A DC transformer is constructed by using superconductors, and a DC transformer is used for the following purposes:

  • The functions of a DC transformer include taking the current from a direct current source and converting it into a regular supply.
  • Another important function of a DC transformer is maintaining a smooth current supply between the circuit and receiver.

Different parts of DC transformer

Now that we have learned what a DC transformer is and its functions let us look at the different parts of a DC transformer.

  • Windings: It is one of the important parts of a DC transformer; this part includes wrapped and bundled copper wires. The amount of winding depends on the supply and the voltage range.
  • Insulating materials: This separates the outer and inner windings in a transformer. Paper or cardboard pieces are generally used for this purpose.
  • A conservator: This is one of the important parts of a DC transformer, which contains the transformer oil and is placed at the top of the transformer.
  • Breather: It is a cylindrical part of a DC transformer and contains a kind of silica gel; it is used to keep the parts of the DC transformer moisture-free.
  • Tap changer: A tap changer is an important part of the DC transformer; it balances the voltage fluctuation.
  • Cooling tubes: Cooling tubes prevent transformers from malfunctioning; a cooling tube’s function is to cool down the transformer oil.                                                     
  • Buchholz Relay: The function of the Buchholz Relay is also to prevent malfunctioning in the transformer; this device detects any faults within the transformer.
  • Explosion vent: When the temperature of transformer oil becomes too high, it is released from the explosion vents to avoid a complete breakdown of a transformer.

Working principle of a DC transformer

The functions of DC transformation are based on the principle of mutual induction between two circuits. A DC transformer consists of two coils separated by placing an insulating material between them; these coils do not possess any electric charge and are static. However, these coils are joined together by a magnetic field; mutual induction is caused by this magnetic field induced by a current in the transformer. 

Applications of transformers

A transformer has the following applications:

  • Used in electric equipment and appliances.
  • Power transmission, ie, electricity supply through wires.
  • Old television sets and screens.
  • Used in power grids to supply the electricity.
  • Transformers are also used in charging devices, such as mobile and other electronic chargers.

Conclusion

A transformer transfers electric charge from one part of a circuit to another without affecting the frequency of the charge circulating in the circuit. A transformer is of various types and has a wide range of uses. For example, the transformer is used for our mobile phones to electricity lines. 

The working principle of a DC transformer is the principle of mutual Induction; different parts of a DC transformer play an important role in the device’s functioning. The above article explains what a DC transformer is, the different parts of a DC transformer, the functions of a DC transformer, and its applications.

faq

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the NEET UG Examination Preparation.

How is a transformer different from a generator?

Ans: The fundamental difference between a transformer and a generator is their working principles. The transformer w...Read full

Who first developed a transformer?

Ans: The credit for developing the first transformer is generally given to three physicists: Ottó Bláthy, Miksa DÃ...Read full

How is the transformer used in electricity cables?

Ans: One of the major functions of a DC transformer is to regulate or control the voltage of the circuits. The trans...Read full

Why are transformers important?

Ans: Transformers are important electronic devices; they have a wide range of applications. The essential use of a t...Read full

What is a hysteresis loss in a transformer?

Ans: As current flows in a reverse and forward direction in a transformer, this current flow affects the magnetisati...Read full