Electric transformers are key elements in a variety of industrial processes. It's important to have the correct electrical transformer for the job, while at the same time getting the best quality power supply transformers. Customer power transformers are also an option if the application calls for it, but these will often be more expensive than standard electric power transformers.

As a business owner, you need to make a decision as to whether all the equipment can use standard electric power transformers, or whether your equipment will benefit from a custom power transformer. To decide which would be best, consider the following:

1. How long you expect the transformer to last.

2. Whether a custom power transformer is necessary to get the right amount of power.

3. The initial cost weighed against the long term productivity of the transformer.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find power transformers for your specific application

There are many different types of power transformers available on the market. Depending on the industry you work in, you'll need to find electric power transformers that fit your company's specific application.

I recommend: Federal Pacific and the ACME Electric Corporation are two companies that provide a wide range of electric power transformers for a number of industries.

Use custom power transformers

While there are many standard power transformers on the market, the specific needs of your application may not always be met by standard equipment. In this instance, choose a provider of electric power transformers that can offer custom power transformers for your business. Custom transformers can help your business use power more efficiently.

I recommend: You can find customer power transformers at Competitive Magnetics, as well as Quality Transformer.

Purchase transformers from a reputable power transformer supplier

Getting the right power transformer supplier is one of the most important aspects of purchasing electric power transformers. The right supplier for your business will be able to provide you with the power transformers you need, quickly and with personalized service. And if you need custom orders, you should find a supplier willing to work with you to develop the perfect transformer.

I recommend: Noor Tech and Fab is a good supplier of electric power transformers, as is Pacific Transformer. Both companies can to provide businesses with a variety of power transformer options.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The power transformer you choose will directly affect how your equipment functions. If you purchase and install the wrong transformer, the consequence could be as small as the equipment not working. In the worst case scenario, your equipment shorts out and is permanently damaged. If you are unsure of which type electric power transformer you need, hire a professional who can determine the right product for your needs.

There are actually very different instruments that fall under the general heading of electrical transformers, including current transformers and potential transformers. This guide, however, focuses on the common power transformer. The main science behind these transformers is magnetic induction, which converts input voltage or current to output voltage or current at a different phase or level.

Inside of a transformer are coils. The size and manufacturing cost of a transformer depends on the composition of these coils. Various types of single-phase and 3-phase transformers not only operate differently, but also range in material efficiency. Here is a breakdown of the types of electrical transformers:

1. Single-phase electric power transformers come in single, dual and quad, as well as 5-lead and ladder. Five-lead is less materially efficient than quad, but ladder is the least cost efficient.

2. One style of 3-phase electrical transformers is delta; another style of 3-phase transformers is wye.

3. Other styles of 3-phase transformers combine styles by using one style for the primary coil and one style for the secondary coil.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy from power transformer suppliers that have large selections

There is not just one electric power transformer that will do a given job. Finding the transformer that both suits your application and has the lowest cost and power efficiency should be your goal. Shopping power transformer manufacturers and suppliers with large selections will help with this.

I recommend: Waukesha Electric Systems, Inc. sells medium and high-power transformers in virtually all types. They also provide tech support and other services that will help you get the job done. ABB is another source for multiple types of larger power transformers. Their categories include phase shifting, GSU, HVDC conversion and substation applications.

Get the electrical transformer with the right specifications

Besides the general type of transformer, there are other specifications you should consider. These are max secondary voltage and current ratings, as well as max power rating. Also, the output type is crucial for getting a transformer that suits your purposes. In the case of AC output, as opposed to DC, the electric transformer's waveform is another consideration.

I recommend: Hammond Manufacturing has a selection of both low-profile and vertical power transformers. They clearly publish specifications and include a selection guide on their website. Dongan Transformers is another good place to look. They have a wide range of electrical transformers, including K-factor, dry, ignition and many others.

Purchase small and custom power transformers

One way to get just the right specifications for you application is to buy a custom power transformer.

I recommend: Besides having a huge selection of electric power transformers from many brands, TEMCo custom manufactures transformers to your specifications. Johnson Electric Coil Company custom builds small transformers of both usual and unusual types.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  You can choose between toroidal or laminated electrical power transformers. A toroidal transformer uses a copper wire wrap to prevent electrical loss. A laminated transformer employs an insulating coating over the core.