Autotransformer: Transformer Winding Primary Secondary Winding Taps Voltage Source Electrical Load

Autotransformer
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
An autotransformer (sometimes called autoformer)[1] is an electrical transformer with only one

winding. The auto- prefix refers to the single coil rather than any automatic mechanism In an
autotransformer portions of the same winding act as both the primary and secondary winding.
The winding has at least three taps where electrical connections are made. One end of the
winding is usually connected in common to both the voltage source and the electrical load. The
other end of the source and load are connected to taps along the winding. Different taps on the
winding correspond to different voltages, measured from the common end. In a step-down
transformer the source is usually connected across the entire winding while the load is connected
by a tap across only a portion of the winding. In a step-up transformer, conversely, the load is
attached across the full winding while the source is connected to a tap across a portion of the
winding.
Contents
[hide]
 1 Operation
 2 Limitations
 3 Applications
 4 Variable autotransformers
 5 See also
 6 Notes
 7 References
[edit] Operation
Single-phase tapped autotransformer with output voltage range of 40%–115% of input
As in an ordinary transformer, the ratio of secondary to primary voltages is equal to the ratio
of the number of turns of the winding they connect to. For example, connecting the load between
the middle and bottom of the autotransformer will reduce the voltage by 50%. Depending on the
application, that portion of the winding used solely in the higher-voltage (lower current) portion
may be wound with wire of a smaller gauge, though the entire winding is directly connected.
[edit] Limitations
An autotransformer does not provide electrical isolation between its windings as an ordinary
transfomer does. A failure of the insulation of the windings of an autotransformer can result in
full input voltage applied to the output. This is an important safety consideration when deciding
to use an autotransformer in a given application. Furthermore, if the "neutral" side of the input is
not at ground voltage, the "neutral" side of the output will not be either.
Because it requires both fewer windings and a smaller core, an autotransformer for power
applications is typically lighter and less costly than a two-winding transformer, up to a voltage
ratio of about 3:1 - beyond that range a two-winding transformer is usually more economical.
In three phase power transmission applications, autotransformers have the limitations of not
suppressing harmonic currents and as acting as another source of ground fault currents. A large
three-phase autotransformer may have a "buried" delta winding, not connected to the outside of
the tank, to absorb some harmonic currents.
A special form of autotransformer called a "zig zag" is used to provide grounding (earthing) on
three-phase systems that otherwise have no connection to ground (earth). A zig-zag transformer
provides a path for current that is common to all three phases (so-called "zero sequence"
current).
Like multiple-winding transformers, autotransformers operate on time-varying magnetic fields

and so cannot be used directly on DC.
[edit] Applications
Autotransformers are frequently used in power applications to interconnect systems operating at
different voltage classes, for example 138 kV to 66 kV for transmission. Another application is
in industry to adapt machinery built (for example) for 480 V supplies to operate on a 600 V
supply. They are also often used for providing conversions between the two common domestic
mains voltage bands in the world (100-130 and 200-250). The links between the UK 400 kV and
275 kV 'Super Grid' networks are normally three phase autotransformers with taps at the
common neutral end.
On long rural power distribution lines, special autotransformers with automatic tap-changing
equipment are inserted as voltage regulators, so that customers at the far end of the line receive
the same average voltage as those closer to the source. The variable ratio of the autotransformer
compensates for the voltage drop along the line.
In audio applications, tapped autotransformers are used to adapt speakers to constant-voltage

audio distribution systems, and for impedance matching such as between a low-impedance
microphone and a high-impedance amplifier input.
In UK railway applications, it is common to power the trains at 25 kV AC. To increase the

distance between electricity supply Grid feeder points they can be arranged to supply a 25-0-25
kV supply with the third wire (opposite phase) out of reach of the train's overhead collector
pantograph. The 0 V point of the supply is connected to the rail while one 25 kV point is
connected to the overhead contact wire. At frequent (about 10 km) intervals, an autotransformer
links the contact wire to rail and to the second (antiphase) supply conductor. This system
increases usable transmission distance, reduces induced interference into external equipment and
reduces cost. A variant is occasionally seen where the supply conductor is at a different voltage
to the contact wire with the autotransformer ratio modified to suit.
References - "Fahrleitungen electrischer Bahnen" BG Teubner-Verlag, Stuttgart, page 672. An

English edition "Contact Lines for Electric Railways" appears to be out of print. This industry
standard text describes the various European electrification principles. See the website of the
UIC in Paris for the relevant international rail standards, in English. No comparable publications
seem to exist for American railways, probably due to the paucity of electrified installations there.
[edit] Variable autotransformers

A variable autotransformer, with a sliding-brush secondary connection and a toroidal core. Cover
has been removed to show copper windings and brush.
Variable Transformer - part of Tektronix 576 Curve Tracer
As with two-winding transformers, autotransformers may be equipped with many taps and
automatic switchgear to allow them to act as automatic voltage regulators, to maintain a steady
voltage at the customers' service during a wide range of load conditions. They can also be used to
simulate low line conditions for testing. Another application is a lighting dimmer that doesn't
produce the EMI typical of most thyristor dimmers.
By exposing part of the winding coils and making the secondary connection through a sliding
brush, an almost continuously variable turns ratio can be obtained, allowing for very smooth
control of voltage. Applicable only for relatively low voltage designs, this device is known as a
variable AC transformer, or commonly by the trade name of Variac.
From 1934 to 2002, Variac was a U.S. trademark of General Radio for a variable
autotransformer intended to conveniently vary the output voltage for a steady AC input voltage.
In 2004, Instrument Service Equipment applied and obtained the Variac trademark for the same
type of product.

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Autotransformer

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

An autotransformer (sometimes called autoformer)[1] is an electrical transformer with only one

Like multiple-winding transformers, autotransformers operate on time-varying magnetic fields

In audio applications, tapped autotransformers are used to adapt speakers to constant-voltage

In UK railway applications, it is common to power the trains at 25 kV AC. To increase the

References - "Fahrleitungen electrischer Bahnen" BG Teubner-Verlag, Stuttgart, page 672. An

[edit] Variable autotransformers

Variable Transformer - part of Tektronix 576 Curve Tracer

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