0%

at 100% load

Total Losses	0 kW
Copper Losses	0 kW
Core Losses	0 kW
Input Power	0 kW
Output Power	0 kW

Power Distribution

Loss Analysis

Tips to Reduce Copper Losses

Use conductors with larger cross-sectional area
Use materials with higher conductivity (e.g., copper instead of aluminum)
Optimize winding design to minimize length
Keep operating temperature within limits
Use stranded conductors to reduce skin effect

Tips to Reduce Core Losses

Use high-quality magnetic core materials
Use thinner laminations to reduce eddy currents
Operate at optimal flux density
Ensure proper core assembly to minimize air gaps
Use grain-oriented steel for the core

Load vs. Efficiency Curve

Efficiency at Different Loads

Load %	Efficiency %	Copper Loss	Core Loss	Total Loss

Help & Guide

Transformer Efficiency Formula

The efficiency (η) of a transformer is calculated as the ratio of output power to input power, expressed as a percentage:

η = (P_out / P_in) × 100%

Where:

P_out = Output power (power delivered to the load)
P_in = Input power (power drawn from the source)

Alternatively, efficiency can be calculated using losses:

η = (P_out / (P_out + P_loss)) × 100%

Where P_loss is the sum of copper losses and core losses.

Types of Transformer Losses

Copper Losses (I²R Losses)

Copper losses occur due to the resistance of the transformer windings. These losses vary with the load current and are calculated as:

P_cu = I²R

Where:

I = Current through the winding
R = Resistance of the winding

Copper losses are also called "variable losses" because they change with the load.

Core/Iron Losses

Core losses (iron losses) consist of two components:

Hysteresis Loss: Energy lost due to the magnetic domains in the core material reversing alignment with the alternating magnetic field.
Eddy Current Loss: Energy lost due to circulating currents induced in the core material.

Core losses are relatively constant and occur whenever the transformer is energized, regardless of the load. They depend on:

Core material
Flux density
Frequency
Core construction

Practical Tips to Improve Transformer Efficiency

Design Considerations

Select appropriate core material (e.g., amorphous metal for high efficiency)
Optimize the core cross-sectional area to reduce flux density
Use thicker conductors to reduce resistance
Implement proper cooling to maintain optimal operating temperature
Consider autotransformer design for applications with small voltage differences

Operational Practices

Operate transformers close to their rated capacity for maximum efficiency
Use multiple smaller transformers instead of one large transformer when load varies significantly
Implement load management strategies to balance phases
Regularly maintain transformers to prevent efficiency degradation
Monitor transformer temperature and loading conditions

Tip: Transformer efficiency is typically highest at loads between 50-75% of rated capacity. Consider this when sizing transformers for your application.