5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Core Type Transformer

With regards to construction, there are basically 2 types of transformers, which are the shell type transformer and the core type transformer. They are different from each other in the way they are wound around the magnetic core. As for the core type transformer, its winding surrounds a considerable part of its cores (or limbs), where the half turns of primary and secondary windings that are placed on each core. Usually, it uses a circular coil for the strength it brings—this type of coil is wound in a helical layer with the various layers insulated from each other by micarta board, cloth, paper or a cooling duct. Considering its design and features, a core type transformer is preferred by some people over the other type for its perks, but there are also some drawbacks to it. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of a core type transformer:

List of Advantages of Core Type Transformer

1. It offers good mechanical strength.
The cylindrical coils used in core type transformers are wound over a symmetrical core section. The way they are constructed will give you the advantage of getting better mechanical strength than other types of coils. As mentioned above, a core type transformer is created with one half of every winding enclosed around each of the limbs of its magnetic circuit.

2. It has the advantage of preventing condensed flux leakage and iron loss.
When it comes to its lamination, the one in a core type transformer is typically arranged to create an overlapping joint with an extra pair of laminations to make for an accurate core thickness. This stacking of laminations also provides this transformer the advantage of preventing condensed flux leakage and iron loss.

3. It is efficient for high frequencies.
Because the core type transformer uses several steel laminations, which are protected by a non-conducting insulation material between layers, the eddy currents will be contained and the magnetizing effects will be reduced. Now, while these thin laminations are more difficult to manufacture and more expensive, they make the transformer efficient for high frequencies.

List of Disadvantages of Core Type Transformer

1. It is not good to use outdoors.
As with other dry transformers, a core type transformer is not good for outdoor use. Unlike oil transformers, it is not protected from corrosion and other extreme weather elements that can slowly degrade its inner components, especially those made of metal. As you can see, this type of transformer is good for household appliances and mid-size industrial appliances, such as indoor power centrals and plants.

2. It can be noisy.
A core type transformer and other dry transformers can be noisy. It can produce audible noise emissions from the tin work or electrical noise that arises from arcing on the covers. Now, this is not good if you have sensitive appliances or equipment nearby.

With the advantages and disadvantages listed above, you will now know whether the core type transformer is the best choice for your needs, or not. Bottom line is, the choice of transformer will depend on the type of application in your project.