[2024] All About Efficiency of Transformer Explained

    The ratio of output power to the input power in a transformer expressed in percentage is known as the efficiency of transformer. It is the measure of how a transformer uses the input power to generate the desired output power. It is denoted by a Greek letter ETA (η). The equation to calculate the efficiency of a transformer has below.

Efficiency(η)= (Output Power / Input Power)*100%

    also,

Efficiency(η)= (Losses / Input Power)*100%

    Transformer efficiency has direct impact on its performance and aging. The efficiency of transformer vary with the load and works works most efficiently at third forth of its full load capacity. Generally efficiency of a transformer is in the range of 95%-99%. For a large transformer with very low losses, efficiency may be high as 99.7%.

    The output and input parameters measurement of a transformer are not implemented under loaded conditions as the watt-meter sensing inevitably suffers 1 – 2% error. So for the the efficiency calculations, open circuit and short circuit tests are performed to calculate core and winding losses in the transformer.

    The efficiency of an ideal transformer is unity but it is near to unity for a practical transformer because of the losses of the transformer.

Factor Affecting the Efficiency of Transformer

    The efficiency of transformer is affected by several factors which are listed below.

1. Transformer losses
2. Load on Transformer
3. Transformer Size
4. Flux Leakage

Methods to Improve the Efficiency of Transformer

    There are various methods to improve the efficiency of a transformer which are listed below.

1. Loop Area Insulation
2. Low Coil Resistance
3. Tight Winding

Conclusion

    Hope, you have clearly understand about the efficiency of the transformer, its formula, factor affecting, methods to improve efficiency. Make sure to leave your opinion and suggestion about this post in the comment section below.