OEMs or those replacing existing transformers in various types of equipment and systems have two options to consider. The first and the most common option is to select an off the shelf type of transformer.
This may be a viable option for some OEMs and for some equipment. However, there are significant drawbacks to choosing an off the shelf transformer. The most obvious of these drawbacks is the configuration of the transformer, which may limit the ability of the OEM in designing the equipment.
The second option to consider is a custom designed and manufactured transformer. For both three phase and single phase transformers, this is often the best option, although it is not always the least expensive. The benefits of the custom transformer often more than offset the costs, providing the OEM with significant advantages in the design and the capability of the equipment.
The Benefits
The choice of single phase transformers, which can include a range of options from autotransformers to constant-voltage or flyback transformers, is ideal for applications where there is single-phase AC power into the system and the need to output single-phase AC power.
The use of single phase transformers is typically used to step-down power, but they can also be used as a step-up option as well. The specific change in the current through the transformer is a factor of the ration of the input windings to the output windings, also known as the primary and secondary windings.
Custom transformers can include the specific type of windings and the winding ratio, as well as the exact size and configuration required for the equipment or system. This ability to build the single phase transformer to the needs of the OEM opens up design possibilities and may be instrumental in providing an edge for the product over the competition in the market.
