EE 122

AC Apparatus and Devices

Transformer Nameplate Ratings

Cesar G. Manalo, Jr.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Enumerate the major ratings of a transformer.
Explain the importance of transformer
ratings.

MAJOR TRANSFORMER RATINGS

1.
2.
3.
4.

Apparent power (KVA, or MVA)

Primary and secondary voltage(V)
Frequency (Hz)
Per-unit series resistance and reactance

The above ratings are found on the nameplates of

the transformers.

VOLTAGE RATING
Serves two functions:
o Protect the winding insulation from breakdown.
o Protect the transformer from excessive
magnetization current.
Over-voltage results in a higher maximum flux in the
core since the latter is proportional to the applied
voltage.

Higher values of flux results to an even higher value

of magnetization current due to core saturation which
can be damaging to the transformer.

VOLTAGE RATING

FREQUENCY RATING
The flux is also affected by the frequency of the
applied voltage since = 2f.
If a transformer is to be operated on lower frequency,
then the voltage rating had to be reduced to maintain
the maximum flux at an acceptable level and, hence,
the magnetization current.
This lowering of the voltage rating due to a lower
operating frequency is called derating.

ILLUSTRATIVE PROBLEM 1
A 1-kVA, 230/115-V, 60-Hz single-phase transformer
has 850 turns and 425 turns on its primary and
secondary windings respectively. The magnetization
curve for this transformer is shown below. Calculate.
a) The peak magnetization current at 230 V and 60Hz source.
b) The peak magnetization current at 230 V and 50Hz source.
c) In b) if the magnetization current is to be
maintained at a value same as that found in a)
what should be the derated voltage rating of the
transformer?

ILLUSTRATIVE PROBLEM 1

APPARENT POWER RATING

This rating, together with the voltage rating, limits
the acceptable current flowing through the
transformer windings.
Current flow is important because it has a direct
effect on the heating of the transformer caused by
copper losses (I2R).
Overheating of transformer coils drastically shortens
the life of its insulation.

REFERENCE(S):
1. Electric Machinery Fundamentals, Stephen J.
Chapman, 5th Edition, Mc-Graw Hill.

END OF SESSION