The major parts of a single-phase transformer consist of

1. Core

The core acts as a support to the winding in the transformer. It also provides a low reluctance path to the flow of magnetic flux. The winding is wound on the core, as shown in the picture. It is made up of a laminated soft iron core in order to reduce the losses in a transformer. The factors, such as operating voltage, current, power, etc., decide core composition. The core diameter is directly proportional to copper losses and inversely proportional to iron losses.

2. Windings

Windings are the set of copper wires wound over the transformer core. Copper wires are used due to the following:

• The high conductivity of copper minimises the loss in a transformer because when the conductivity increases, resistance to current flow decreases.
• The high ductility of copper is the property of metals that allows it to be made into very thin wires.

There are mainly two types of windings: primary windings and secondary windings.

• Primary winding: The set of turns of windings to which the supply current is fed.
• Secondary winding: The set of turns of winding from which output is taken.

The primary and secondary windings are insulated from each other using insulation coating agents.

3. Insulation Agents

Insulation is necessary for transformers to separate windings from each other and to avoid short circuits. This facilitates mutual induction. Insulation agents have an influence on the durability and stability of a transformer.

The following are used as insulation mediums in a transformer:

• • • • Insulating oil
      • Insulating tape
      • Insulating paper
      • Wood-based lamination