Hey there! As a supplier of low-loss dry transformers, I often get asked about how tap changers work to adjust the voltage of these transformers. So, I thought I'd break it down in this blog post and give you a clear understanding of the process.
First off, let's talk about what a low-loss dry transformer is. These transformers are designed to be more energy-efficient compared to traditional oil-filled transformers. They use a dry insulation system, which means there's no risk of oil spills or fires. This makes them a safer and more environmentally friendly option, especially for indoor applications.
Now, onto the tap changer. A tap changer is a device that allows you to change the turns ratio of the transformer's windings. The turns ratio is the ratio of the number of turns in the primary winding to the number of turns in the secondary winding. By changing this ratio, you can adjust the output voltage of the transformer.
There are two main types of tap changers: on-load tap changers (OLTC) and off-load tap changers (OLTC). On-load tap changers can change the tap position while the transformer is energized, which means you can adjust the voltage without having to shut down the transformer. This is really useful in situations where you need to make quick voltage adjustments to compensate for changes in the load or the grid voltage.
Off-load tap changers, on the other hand, require the transformer to be de-energized before you can change the tap position. This is a bit more time-consuming, but it's also a simpler and more cost-effective option. Off-load tap changers are typically used in applications where voltage adjustments are not needed very often.
So, how does the tap changer actually adjust the voltage? Well, it all comes down to the turns ratio. When you change the tap position, you're effectively changing the number of turns in the winding. Let's say you have a transformer with a primary winding of 100 turns and a secondary winding of 50 turns. The turns ratio in this case is 2:1, which means the output voltage will be half of the input voltage.
If you want to increase the output voltage, you can use the tap changer to increase the number of turns in the secondary winding. For example, if you change the tap position so that the secondary winding has 60 turns, the turns ratio becomes 100:60 or 5:3. This means the output voltage will be 3/5 of the input voltage, which is higher than before.
Conversely, if you want to decrease the output voltage, you can use the tap changer to decrease the number of turns in the secondary winding. This will increase the turns ratio and lower the output voltage.
At our company, we offer a range of low-loss dry transformers with both on-load and off-load tap changers. Our Nx1 Dry-type Transformer is a great option for applications where you need a reliable and energy-efficient transformer with basic voltage adjustment capabilities. It comes with an off-load tap changer, which is easy to operate and maintain.
If you need more advanced voltage adjustment capabilities, our Nx2 Dry-type Transformer is a great choice. It features an on-load tap changer, which allows you to make quick and precise voltage adjustments without having to shut down the transformer. This is ideal for applications where you need to maintain a stable voltage under varying load conditions.
For the most demanding applications, we recommend our Nx3 Dry-type Transformer. This transformer is designed to provide the highest level of performance and reliability, with advanced features such as a high-capacity on-load tap changer and a state-of-the-art control system. It's perfect for use in critical infrastructure projects and industrial applications where downtime is not an option.
In conclusion, tap changers are an essential component of low-loss dry transformers. They allow you to adjust the output voltage to meet the specific requirements of your application, which can help you improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure the reliable operation of your electrical system.
If you're interested in learning more about our low-loss dry transformers or have any questions about tap changers, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We'd be happy to discuss your needs and help you find the right solution for your project.
References
- Electrical Power Systems by J. R. Lucas
- Transformer Engineering: Design, Technology, and Diagnostics by T. A. Short
