Tag: autotransformer

An autotransformer is a type of electrical transformer where a single winding is used to serve as both the primary and secondary winding. It differs from a standard transformer, where the primary and secondary windings are separate and not electrically connected. Autotransformers have many uses in our life. In the following, ATO industrial automation will introduce the application of autotransformer.

Transformer is a device that uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to change the AC voltage. Whether troubleshooting a transformer or replacing one, knowing how to test a transformer is an integral part of the process. The three primary tests used to determine the condition of a transformer are the open-circuit test, short-circuit test, and measurements of winding resistance. In this atricle, ATO industrial automation will introduce 3 methods of testing transformer.

An autotransformer is a special transformer with primary and secondary without insulation. In short, it means that its primary and secondary windings are on the same winding, i.e., a transformer with only one winding, which means it is a special transformer with a common set of coils for output and input. When the autotransformer is used as a step-down transformer, part of the line turns are taken out from the winding as the secondary winding, and when the autotransformer is used as a step-up transformer, the applied voltage is only added to part of the line turns of the winding. Because DC power cannot be directly stepped up, it needs to go through electronic and other components.

Autotransformers and isolation transformers are two different forms of transformers that work on the same principle. Both use an energy conversion between the alternating magnetic field and the alternating current in the coil to convert the voltage. So what's the difference between them? The following article lists six major differences between autotransformers and isolation transformers.