What Are Toroidal Transformers Used For?

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Transformers serve as integral components in most electric systems. Toroidal transformers are no exception.

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In this modern age, digital technologies cannot function without the availability of electricity. This flow of current would also not be possible without the presence of transformers.

Power transformers, in particular, are used when in need of a high-efficiency power transfer. They work on the principle of electromagnetic induction.

Two magnetically coupled coils form the primary and secondary windings. This is where toroidal transformers come into the picture.

Read on to learn more about them, how they work, and why they are in demand.

Transformers Explained

It all starts with the electromagnetic induction effect. With two wires running parallel to each other.

If one wire has a changing electric field, it puts current in the other winding. This leads to isolated voltage generation, representing how every transformer works.

How do standard transformers work?

EI core transformers include a shape as correspondence “E and I”. The winding is wrapped around the middle leg. Meanwhile, the two outside legs create an extra path for magnetic flux.

The air gap remains between the E and I portion of the middle leg due to high precision. This air gap raises the transformer reluctance and, thus, the core losses.

The magnetic flux flow then provides electromagnetic interference with another component. This causes sound distortion.

Adding shaped metal cores makes the process more efficient. A typical “E” shaped one, for instance, allows the magnetic flux to channel through the core.

An E-I-shaped core, in contrast, can only enable flux to flow through the laminate. This limits the efficiency of a unit.

If the latter is your case, there is a way to solve the problem. Convert the E-shaped core to a round or doughnut form, cue toroidal transformers.

Toroidal Transformers

A toroidal transformer is a doughnut-shaped type of power transformer. Its primary and secondary windings are wounded across the torus core.

When a current flows through the primary, it induces an electromotive force (EMF). Then a current in the secondary winding transfers power to the secondary coil.

The unique shape of toroidal transformers allows for shorter coils. It also reduces winding losses and improves overall efficiency.

Even better, the configuration minimises magnetic flux leakage. The provided increased design flexibility and compactness add up to its advantages.

Thus, toroidal is regarded as the ideal transformer core design. Suitable for sensitive and critical electronic circuits.

The operating principles

As mentioned, they work on the principle of electromagnetic induction. The current flows through the primary winding.

That induces an EMF followed by the current flow in the secondary winding. This is pretty much how the current is transferred from the primary to the secondary winding.

The cross-section is mostly a symmetrical circle, which also helps reduce magnetic flux. The core uses materials such as iron powder or those with a ferromagnetic property.

They have a fully-loaded capacity and may function continuously based on the application. The low EMI advantage finds applications in audio and video devices, including amplifiers.

Moreover, they operate using alternating current (AC). Such currents change direction in sine wave patterns.

The devices can alter AC voltage to different frequencies. For instance, electricity passes through coils to build positive magnetic fields.

The outcome will then collapse when the voltage gets reduced to zero. In contrast, moving in the opposite direction produces a negative result.

Like the (+) output, the (-) will also collapse when the voltage returns to zero.

Common Applications

Electrical circuits

The compact size makes them ideal for electric circuit applications. This includes computers, inverters, and similar devices.

Toroidal models also hum less than conventional options. This also makes them suitable for TV, amplifier, and audio-system applications.

Medical industries

Superior efficiency is important in the medical industry. Such systems require low leakage currents and noiseless and reliable operations.

Enter toroidal transformers. They can be fixed into medical instruments in which space and weight limitations are key.

Toroidal transformers are also used in a wide array of standard applications, including:

• Industrial control equipment
• LED lighting
• Power distribution equipment
• Renewable energy (inverter systems)
• Security systems
• Telecommunication

The Benefits of Using Toroidal Transformers

Toroidal transformers are favoured as long-term solutions for multiple reasons. Their small size and lightweight qualities add to their high-quality performance.

Another reason is they use a fraction of the energy consumed in the E-I. But there is more! Below are what makes toroidal transformers in demand:

Low noise and stray field

The field generated by magnetisation, a.k.a. the stray field, is lower in a toroidal transformer. This is because of the uniform core windings.

Less magnetic interference in toroids results in higher performance.

Low operating temperature

This type operates at lower temperatures than those with similar specifications. Behind this are the short windings that act as a shield.

This design improves the overall efficiency and performance, keeping the temperature lower.

Lightweight core

The core of toroidal transformers weighs less than standard units. For one, they consist of fewer raw materials.

They also have a unique, compact design which makes them suitable in cramped spaces.

Easy to mount

With a screw, you can mount a toroidal transformer in a short time. This convenience helps limit maintenance and downtime.

It also can be custom-made and does not have compatibility issues with most equipment.

More economical

Toroidal transformers have fewer materials, weigh less and do not use as much energy. Toroidal cores facilitate almost 100% utilisation with minimal energy dissipation.

Overall, they provide better cost savings and higher returns on investment.

Get Your Toroidal Transformers Here!

 

20VA Toroidal Transformer

Product code: TM702x

An industry standard of ISO 9000 quality that is simple, quick, single-bolt mounting. It has a smaller size and weight to meet modern slimline requirements.

High efficiency enables conservative rating whilst maintaining size advantages. Low electrically induced noise demanded by compact equipment.

 

160VA Toroidal Transformer

Product code: TM716x

Features improved magnetic properties and a lower profile perfect for rack-mounted devices. Industry-standard, with a quality mode of ISO 9000.

 

300VA Toroidal Transformer

Product code: TM730x

This version has very low induced noise (hum) and iron loss. It also features a low level of a radiated magnetic field.

Smaller in size and compact, meeting modern slimline requirements.

 

500VA Toroidal Transformer

Product code: TM74xx

Single phase and high-quality toroidal transformer in full copper with 500VA power capacity. It comes with a primary voltage of 240V AC 50Hz. Plus, a second winding option.

The Bottom Line

Toroidal transformers are more compact than conventional ones of the same ratings. Around 50% smaller in size and lighter in weight, to be exact.

The lesser interference with adjoining circuits and a lower humming noise are a plus! This makes them ideal for highly concentrated environments where the surge is critical.

The efficiency of toroidal transformers makes them useful for a variety of applications.