Transformer Core

The transformer core is one of the main components of a transformer and is used to provide a magnetic circuit to direct the magnetic field into the windings of the transformer. It is usually made of a ferritic alloy such as crystalline silicon steel sheet or amorphous alloy.

Material selection: Common transformer core materials include crystalline silicon steel sheets and amorphous alloys. Crystalline silicon steel sheets are characterized by low hysteresis and low iron loss and are suitable for low frequency applications. Amorphous alloy has lower hysteresis loss and iron loss due to its amorphous structure, which is suitable for high frequency applications and occasions with higher energy saving requirements.

Magnetic Circuit Conductivity: The main function of the transformer core is to provide a low reluctance magnetic circuit so that the magnetic field passes through the core as far as possible without dissipation. This improves the efficiency of the transformer and the energy conversion efficiency.

Flux Density: Transformer cores are designed with magnetic flux density, which is the amount of magnetic flux per unit area, in mind. Higher flux density can increase the power density of the transformer, but it will also increase the hysteresis loss and iron loss. Therefore, the relationship between magnetic flux density and losses needs to be weighed in the design.

Core structure: Transformer cores are usually laminated, i.e., the sheets of the core are stacked together. Such a structure can reduce eddy current losses and hysteresis losses, and improve the continuity of the magnetic circuit.

Compensation measures: In order to further reduce the loss of the iron core, often take some compensation measures. For example, AC magnetization techniques (such as light load magnetization and harmonic magnetization) are used to reduce hysteresis losses and iron losses.

The design and selection of the transformer core is critical to the performance and efficiency of the transformer. Hysteresis losses and iron losses can be reduced through reasonable material selection, structural design, and compensatory measures to improve transformer energy utilization and reduce energy waste.