An integral part of our daily lives since the beginning of the 20th century, electrical transformers have become indispensable, especially for transforming the voltage of the distribution network to a voltage more suitable for users.
If they are generally made up of a laminated iron core, copper or aluminum coils, insulation and a case, they can be broken down into 4 large families of electrical transformers:
- control transformers
- general purpose transformers
- specialized transformers
- power transformers
How to choose the right electrical transformer for your needs? Here’s an overview of the different choices on the market.
Control Transformers
What Are They Used For?
Mainly used in industrial environments, control transformers are used to power equipment requiring small loads at lower voltages (120V to 12V).
They are available in three categories of protection:
- Open transformers, which are particularly useful for installation in a larger enclosure with other components;
- Closed transformers: these transformers are used alone, separate from existing equipment;
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Encapsulated transformers, generally dipped in epoxy to protect them from water or outdoor elements like snow, oil or dust. In general, their electrical coil is made of copper.
What Control Transformers Are Available on the Market?
Several products are available on the market. The main manufacturers are Schneider Electric, Hammond Power Solutions, Marcus Transformer, NSi Industries LLC, and Hammond.
Among the most popular electric control transformers, you’ll find the following:
- The Control Transformer 100VA 120–24V Enclosed Type
- The Control Transformer 50VA 600/480-120X240V
- The Control Transformer 100VA 120/240-12/24V Open Type
General Purpose Transformers
What Are They Used For?
Used to reduce distribution voltage (600V) to lower voltages (120/240, 120/208), these are the most common type of electrical transformer. They are particularly suitable for commercial and industrial buildings.
Available in aluminum and copper coils, they are available in single and three-phase options. There are several product offerings in this line of electrical transformers. The most common are commercial grade transformers, auto-transformers and epoxy-encapsulated transformers.
What General Purpose Transformers Are Available on the Market?
Like electrical control transformers, there are many general purpose transformers on the market. They are offered by several manufacturers including Bemag Transformer, Hammond Power Solutions, Marcus Transformer, Rex Power Magnetics and Schneider Electric.
Among the most popular electrical control transformers on the market, you’ll find the following:
- The Transformer Distribution 37.KBA 1PH 600-120/240V Aluminum
- The D16/NRC18 EXPG3 3PH 75JVA 600D-208Y/120V AL 60Hz 150C 3R
- The Transformer 75KBA 600-208Y/120V Dry Type Aluminum
Specialized Transformers
Over the last 30 years, electricity use has evolved considerably. With the use of electronic components, a new range of transformers has been developed to meet these new challenges.
It is in this context that specialized transformers come into play. Be it for harmonics, overvoltage, electrical noise or power interruptions, specialized transformers are designed to meet these challenges. In this category, you’ll find K-factor transformers, isolation transformers, variable speed drive transformers and line inductors.
What Specialized Transformers Are Available on the Market?
As their name suggests, specialized electrical transformers are designed to meet very specific needs. Because of their different applications, these transformers are custom made.
Are you looking for a specialized electrical transformer? Our experts at Guillevin will be happy to guide you to the best solution for your project.
Power Transformers
Power transformers are designed for medium voltage applications and are mainly used for industrial, commercial, heavy and institutional applications.
Designed according to the application they will be used for, this type of transformer is also custom made according to consumer’s needs, if you are looking for the perfect solution.
Hammond Power Solutions and Rex Power Magnetics are also popular suppliers of these custom-made transformers.
What Are the Differences to Consider When Installing Each Type of Transformer?
There is no simple answer to this question, as installation can vary based on national electrical code standards, regional codes or manufacturer recommendations.
What is common to the installation of different transformers? Solid electrical knowledge is needed, and the installation must be done by an expert.
If you are looking for a transformer that best meets your needs, Guillevin offers a wide range of electrical transformers, including custom-made transformers. If you’d like advice, contact our experts. We’ll be happy to help you find the ideal solution.