SP – Introduction to transformers – e-lesson #2: The basics of transformers

Hosted by: Orlando Giraldo / Basic level
Join us for the second lesson of the Basic level of the Introduction to transformers course by Mr Orlando Giraldo.
This transformer lesson provided an in-depth overview of transformer technology and design. The presenter, Orlando Giraldo, has 47 years of experience in the electrical manufacturing industry and specializes in transformer design, production, and testing. The session covered key transformer concepts like electromotive force, electromagnetic flux, and the role of the transformer core. It also explored the various types of losses that occur in transformers, including core, winding, and dielectric losses, and how these impact efficiency and lifespan. The engineering principles applied in transformer design were discussed, spanning disciplines like electromagnetics, electric fields, and heat transfer. Transformer classification based on factors like voltage, cooling, and mobility was also reviewed. The lesson delved into specialized transformer applications, such as distribution, power, network, and mobile transformers. It highlighted the rise of digital transformer technology, which enables real-time monitoring and asset management. The presentation concluded with a look at transformers in renewable energy systems and innovative solid-state transformer designs that leverage power electronics to reduce size and weight.
This lesson will cover a large area, including:
•The need of transformers – Transmitting electric energy at high voltages.
• Old radial systems and new microgrids and smart grids concept. Distributed generation.
• Basic concepts of the electromagnetic theory applied to transformers: magnetic field, magnetic flux, magnetomotive force, permeability of magnetic materials. Basic problems of applications. Exercises.
• Definition of a transformer (the basics of):
o Principles of operation
o Constructive characteristics
o Magnetic circuit and hysteresis cycle
o Windings and electrical circuit
• The insulating structure cooling methods and cooling system working characteristics of a transformer.
• No-load operation: losses and excitation current
• Under load operation: the war of the fluxes. Load losses and transformer ratios.
• Phenomena that occur in an energized transformer
• Forces between windings
• Magnetostriction
• Leakage flux
• Transformer heating
• Standards and regulations: IEEE, IEC, national standards, etc.
• Classification of transformers: review of 22 different of transformer types according to:
o Localization in the electric circuits
o Type of Insulation
o Voltage and power ranges
About the author

Orlando Giraldo
Orlando Giraldo has acquired the title of electrical engineer from the Technological University of Pereira, Colombia, and finance specialist from the EAFIT University. He has worked for over 46 years of at different positions in the transformer-related areas in ABB (13 years), SIEMENS (14 years) and THE HJ FAMILY OF COMPANIES
(the last 21+ years) on: design, production, tests, sales, etc., of transformers and components. He has also completed multiple training visits to transformer and component plants around the world. Mr. Giraldo is a specialist in transformer production, componentsand protection. For the last two years, he has been working as senior consulting engineer of THE H-J FAMILY OF COMPANIES and teacher of Transformer course in the Technological University of Pereira.