In industrial work sites, there are several ways to protect heavy-duty machines and equipment. The use of an isolation transformer is one of the most common methods applicable to both electrical safety and operational efficiency.
What is an Isolation Transformer?
Generally speaking, an isolation transformer is a protective unit applicable to facilitating the transfer of power from a supply (input – usually AC) to a connected device or machine (output). Inside, the unit contains separate primary and secondary windings by a main-insulating component. By comparison, an autotransformer features primary and secondary windings that are connected or shared.
An isolation transformer can come equipped with a 1:1 turns ratio, which implies having the same voltage on the primary (input) and secondary (output). This setup is applicable to preserving connected circuits on the output side, as well as operators from currents between earth ground and conductors that are energized.
This type of transformer may also be utilized to step up or step down voltages for compatibility. For instance, an isolation transformer with a 120V primary and a 240V secondary is used to convert power from a 120V power source to 240V, for compatible equipment on the secondary side.
Protective Mechanisms (Advantages and Benefits)
As mentioned earlier, isolation transformers are mainly used to enhance electrical safety. Individuals can use the units to isolate circuits and reduce potential surges during repair, testing or servicing.
Moreover, this type of transformer is utilized to decrease the unwanted effects of electrical noise from surrounding machines or ‘dirty’ power sources. When used in a facility with units that emit large amounts of electrical noise, the isolation transformer can be protected using an electrostatic shield.
For instance, a Faraday shield is used to increase the quality of power in isolation transformers during use, when applied to reduce electrical noise. Such practices can be found in industrial sites with heavy-duty machines and locations with high electrical standards that use sensitive equipment. Examples of the latter include hospitals, labs and data centers.