2020/08/31

What is a power-frequency transformer? And what’s the difference between a power-frequency transformer and a regular transformer?

Power-frequency transformers, also known as low-frequency transformers, are distinguished from high-frequency transformers used in switch-mode power supplies. Historically, power-frequency transformers were widely employed in conventional power supplies, which relied on linear regulation to maintain stability—hence the term "linear power supplies." The term "power frequency" typically refers to the frequency of mains electricity, which in China is 50 Hz, though other countries use 60 Hz. A transformer capable of altering the voltage of AC power while maintaining this specific frequency is precisely what we call a power-frequency transformer.

2020/08/31

The Role of High-Frequency Transformers _ Where Are High-Frequency Transformers Used?

Currently, switch-mode power supplies typically use a half-bridge power conversion circuit, which includes components like a high-frequency transformer and transistors. When the circuit operates, the transistors alternate between conducting states, generating high-frequency pulses at a rate of 100 kHz. These pulses are then stepped down via the high-frequency transformer, ultimately producing a lower-voltage AC output. The exact output voltage level is determined by the turns ratio of the individual windings in the high-frequency transformer. In most designs, three separate transformers are employed: the main transformer, the driver transformer, and the auxiliary transformer. Each of these transformers has its own specific design specifications and critical functions, making them all indispensable to the overall operation of the system.

2020/08/31

A Brief Exploration of High-Frequency Transformers: Introduction to Transformer Principles

A transformer, as its name suggests, is an electronic power device designed to change voltage levels. It operates on the principle of Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, enabling the transformation of alternating current voltages. Typically, a transformer consists of key components such as a primary coil, an iron core, and a secondary coil. Transformers can facilitate matching and conversion of input and output currents, voltages, and impedances, while also providing physical isolation between the primary and secondary circuits. Depending on the voltage relationship between the primary and secondary windings, transformers are classified into types such as step-down transformers, step-up transformers, and isolation transformers.

2020/08/31

Principles and Design Guidelines for High-Frequency Transformer Design

When designing high-frequency transformers, it's essential to minimize leakage inductance and distributed capacitance, as high-frequency transformers in switch-mode power supplies transmit high-frequency pulse square-wave signals. During these transient switching events, leakage inductance and distributed capacitance can lead to surge currents, voltage spikes, and even top-level oscillations, resulting in increased losses. Typically, transformer leakage inductance is kept within 1% to 3% of the primary inductance.

2020/08/03

Can a switching power supply replace a low-frequency transformer?

Switch-mode power supplies and transformers have a wide range of applications, yet they also differ significantly—both in terms of function and purpose. Simply put, a transformer is an electronic component integrated into a single circuit, while a switch-mode power supply is a more complex circuit composed of multiple electronic components, designed to efficiently convert electrical energy. These distinctions become clear when examining their roles and intended uses.

2020/08/03

A brief overview of the role of power transformers!

Intelligent manufacturing companies commonly rely on electrical power as their primary energy source, which means the electricity generated at power plants must be transmitted over long distances to reach areas where it’s needed. When transmitting power at a constant rate, increasing the transmission voltage actually reduces the required current—since current is directly proportional to power. So, what exactly is the role of a power transformer in this process?