We’ve all seen those electrical transformer boxes. But what’s inside? Why do we need them? And what does an electrical transformer do?
What Is An Electrical Transformer?
Let’s start at the beginning. According to Wikipedia, “a transformer is a passive component that transfers electrical energy from one electrical circuit to another circuit, or multiple circuits.”
A transformer is aptly named: it takes electricity at one voltage and transforms it to another to efficiently transmit and distribute electricity. By producing a magnetic field, it transfers electricity, either increasing or decreasing the voltage level, based on the electrical needs of the application.
Where Are Electrical Transformers?
Electrical transformers aren’t just in boxes near power lines, though that may be how they’re most familiar to you.
If you’re a stage musician, you use them all the time in amplifiers and microphones. They also regulate voltage in refrigerators and air conditioning systems, have replaced switches in circuits (making them safer), and regulate the flow of current in electrolysis. They’re also a key part of the battery recharging process and are used extensively in large applications, like steel manufacturing.
Is There Anything I Need To Know To Stay Safe Around Electrical Transformers?
When you see an electrical transformer box out in the world, stay clear. They’re not meant to be used by the public. If one of them is located on your property, be aware that crews need a lot of space around them to work, so you shouldn’t landscape around them.
As far as everyday items go, there’s little risk. Consumer products have been tested for safety so you can go ahead and belt it out into your microphone without fear.
Sources
For Safety, Leave Space Around Transformers, unitedpower.com
Electrical Transformers, maddox.com
Exploring the Endless Applications of Transformers in Everyday Life, Universal Power, upt.in
Transformer, Wikipedia