Sources of power loss in a transformer include:
- Magnetic flux leakage
- Resistance in coils
- Eddy currents in the core
The following provides causes and fixes for these.
Magnetic Flux Leakage
Not all magnetic flux links both the primary and secondary coil, reducing efficiency.
- Use ferromagnetic core
- Outer cores to channel the magnetic fields through the cores
- Reduce air gaps
- Reduce distance between coils
Resistance in Coils
- Cooling of wires (resistance increases with heat)
- Heatsink to increase rate of heat dissipation
- Black case to absorb heat
- Internal fan
Eddy Currents in the Core
- Lamination of core
- Layers insulated by natural oxide layers on surfaces or by varnish coatings