Many people who contact us ask roughly the same question: How should I choose a transformer? An easy way to get closer to a decision is to click on the tab Calculation help. Here we have collected four different calculations that we hope will make life easier for you.
In the first, you can compare the costs of energy lossesdepending on the type of transformer you choose. Here, you fill in the losses for the different types, operating hours, load factor, life expectancy and energy cost. You can then easily see which transformer has the lowest lifetime cost.
In the second calculation you can calculate the power of the transformer you need by entering the voltage and current you need. Available for both 1-phase and 3-phase transformers.
Then, a spreadsheet that calculates losses at different load levels. Very useful, because the load on the transformer is often crucial for the type of transformer you should choose. A rule of thumb can be that you are at about 70% in load ratio. Then you utilize the transformer in a good way and get a good efficiency.
Finally, a favorite that we often use ourselves, a calculator that calculates efficiency and voltage drop. The efficiency of a transformer generally increases with its size. A small electronic transformer can have an efficiency of around 50%, while a large distribution transformer in an electricity network usually has an efficiency of 98% and above. Since 2015, the efficiency of larger transformers installed in the EU has been set by the so-called ‘Ecodesign Directive’. In short, this means that only transformers that meet the efficiency requirements may be installed.
The voltage drop of a transformer is important to know because it affects how well the electrical system in which the transformer is installed works. Thus, a too high voltage drop can cause the voltage on the secondary side to be too low, which in turn can impair the operation of connected equipment, or that, for example, motors do not start.
Please contact us if you are missing any calculations or if you have any other questions.