The purpose of a transformer is to change the voltage of electricity flowing in a circuit. Transformers can be used to both increase and decrease voltage; when increasing voltage this is called stepping up and when decreasing it is called stepping down. When using a 5kVA and 10kVA transformer the transformer must be wired directly into a suitable mains circuit by a qualified electrician. Transformer hire can be difficult to understand at first and when working with high voltages it is important to know what you’re doing in order to keep safe.
How Does a Transformer Work?
In its simplest form, a transformer consists of two or more coils of insulated wire wound around a steel core. One coil contains the primary current, when voltage is introduced to the primary coil it magnetizes the core. The voltage then enters the other coil, the secondary; the voltage can be changed based on how many times the primary and secondary coils are wound. For example, if the secondary coil has more turns, the voltage will be ‘stepped up’.
Stepping Up
A step-up transformer is able to boost a low voltage to a high voltage. When there are more turns in the secondary coil than in the primary this makes a step-up transformer and ensures the voltage is higher in the secondary coil.
Stepping Down
If the primary coil has more turns that the secondary this makes it is a step-down transformer. For example, if the secondary coil were to have half as many turns as the primary this would result in the secondary coil having half the voltage on the first. There is a general rule with both step-up and step-down transformers that the coil with the highest voltage will have the lowest current.
Transformer Hire
If you need to use transformers on an intermittent basis, transformer hire is the most flexible and practical solution. It allows you to be able to choose the best transformer for your equipment and change as necessary. There are a variety of transformers available for hire with different ratings to suit your equipment.
2.2kVA Transformer
This transformer has the lowest kVA rating and is therefore suitable for situations and equipment which require less electrical power. Transformers with a lower kVA are good for infrequent use and don’t need to be hardwired.
5kVA Transformer
Depending on your equipment and requirements you may need a transformer with a higher kVA; it is important to note that transformers with a kVA rating of 5 or above will need to be hardwired by a qualified electrician.
