autotransformer

An autotransformer is an electrical transformer with only one winding. The winding has at least three electrical connection points called taps. The voltage source is applied to two taps and the load is connected to two taps one of which is usually a common connection that is also connected to the source. Each tap corresponds to a different source or load voltage. In an autotransformer a portion of the same winding effectively acts as part of both the primary and secondary winding.

Operation

Single-phase tapped autotransformer with output voltage range of 40%–115% of input

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 at the middle and bottom of the autotransformer will halve the voltage. 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.

Limitations

A failure of the insulation or the windings of an autotransformer can result in full input voltage to be applied to the output. This is an important safety consideration when deciding to use an autotransfomer in a given application.

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 are not used directly on DC.

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).

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.

Variable autotransformers

A variable autotransformer, with a sliding-brush secondary connection and a toroidal core

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.

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 for the Variac trademark for the same type of product. The term has acquired the status of a genericized trademark and is often used to describe similar variable autotransformers made by other makers.

References

• Terrell Croft and Wilford Summers (ed), American Electricans' Handbook, Eleventh Edition, McGraw Hill, New York (1987) ISBN 0-07013932-6

• Donald G. Fink and H. Wayne Beaty, Standard Handbook for Electrical Engineers, Eleventh Edition,McGraw-Hill, New York, 1978, ISBN 0-07020974-X

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