Electrical Transformer

The job of an electrical transformer is to transmit electric energy and power through the use of wires over long distances. They are considered passive because they transform a current fromone circuit into another.

How electric transformers work

The process of electrical transformation uses a trickle down method. For example the large outdoor electrical transformers break down voltage from 7,200 volt to 220-240 volts. The large appliances in your home like the oven or stove, the water heater, and the air conditioner require 220-240 volts to run properly. Smaller appliances like a computer, television, coffee maker or toaster run on 110-120 volts.

Small power-adapters that are used for cell phones, rechargeable power tools, and portable vacuum cleaners are also considered to be electrical transformers. They will break down the 220-240 volts that run through wall sockets to 9 or 14 volts, depending on the appliance needs.

On the other hand, automobile electrical transformers will power up your cell phone from 9 volts to 12 or 14 volts, as a car has much less electrical power.

Electrical transformer principles & types

• A magnetic field is produced by an electric current
• An alternating magnetic field produces voltage within a coil of wire

The most common types of electric transformers are control, current, power, isolation, automobile, high-voltage, dry type, and step-down.