Power Transformer: A Key Device in Power Transmission
Power transformers, which can be regarded as the "heart" of the power system, hold a central position in the entire power transmission network. Based on the law of electromagnetic induction, it can skillfully convert an alternating voltage and current of a certain level into an alternating voltage and current of the same frequency but different levels. This amazing conversion function is of great significance for the efficient operation of the power system. In power plants, step - up transformers increase low voltage to ultra - high voltage, greatly reducing power loss during long - distance transmission, enabling electricity to reach distant cities and villages across mountains and rivers. At the power - consuming end, step - down transformers accurately adjust high voltage to a safe voltage suitable for households and enterprises, meeting the diverse needs of daily life and industrial production.
In terms of types, power transformers are diverse. According to the winding insulation and cooling method, they can be divided into oil - immersed type, dry - type and gas - filled type. Oil - immersed transformers are widely used in large - scale substations due to their excellent heat dissipation and insulation performance. Dry - type transformers are highly favored in densely populated urban areas and places with high fire - prevention requirements because they are oil - free, environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. Gas - filled transformers stand out in some special environments with their unique gas insulation advantages. According to their uses, in addition to common step - up and step - down transformers, there are also distribution transformers, which are like "power hubs", rationally distributing power to various electrical equipment, ensuring the continuous operation of factory production lines, the bright lights in shopping malls, and the orderly teaching in schools.
With the rise of new energy sources, power transformers also play a significant role in wind power, photovoltaics and other fields. In wind farms, step - up transformers increase the unstable low voltage generated by wind turbines to the grid - access standard, helping "green electricity" to be connected to the grid. In photovoltaic power stations, transformers also play a key role in stabilizing voltage and efficient transmission. It can be said that the stable operation of power transformers is the cornerstone of the safe and reliable power supply in modern society. It silently supports economic development and social operation, and is truly the core equipment of power infrastructure.