Introduction
Transformers are essential components in modern electrical systems, playing a critical role in voltage regulation, power distribution, and energy efficiency. With diverse applications across industries-from power grids and renewable energy systems to consumer electronics-transformers come in various types, each designed for specific operational requirements. Classifying transformers involves considering factors such as construction, functionality, cooling methods, and application domains. This article provides a comprehensive overview of transformer classifications, covering key categories like power transformers, pad mounted transformer, pole mounted transformer, distribution transformers,substation transformers, dry type transformers and special transformers.
Pad Mounted Transformer |  |
Pad mounted transformer, also known as combined substation, is a complete set of transformer and distribution device that combines oil-immersed transformer, high-voltage load switch and protective fuse device, low-voltage distribution wiring part, etc. It is used in ring network power supply, dual power supply or terminal power supply system. Applicable to factories, mines, oil fields, ports, airports, urban public buildings, residential areas, highways, underground facilities and other places. The high voltage side is protected by double fuses, in which the bayonet fuse is a double sensitive fuse (temperature, current), and the elsp fuse is a current limiting fuse, which reduces the operating cost. The tank can adopt anti-corrosion design and special spray painting treatment according to the requirements of the operating environment, with “three anti-corrosion” function, that is, anti-condensation, anti-salt spray, anti-mold function, and can meet the anti-corrosion requirements under high temperature and high humidity environment. Transformers adopt strict safety measures, such as fire, explosion, lightning protection, etc., to protect the equipment and staff of the substation. SCOTECH’s pad mounted transformer adopts multiple protection design, strong aging resistance, high corrosion resistance, high temperature cold and heat shock resistance, long equipment life. Strong ability to adapt to the environment, can adapt to large temperature difference changes, to maintain stable and effective normal operation, SCOTECH production of pad mounted transformer has the advantages of convenient power supply mode conversion, safe and reliable operation, small size, fast installation, safe operation, convenient operation, beautiful appearance, easy maintenance and so on. Economically, it has the advantages of small footprint, short construction period and less waste.
✳ For more detailed information about pad mounted transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-pad-mounted-transformer-103046338.html
https://www.scotech.com/info/single-phase-pad-mounted-transformer-guide-102999341.html
Pole Mounted Transformer |  |
The pole mounted transformer is widely used in power transmission and distribution system, and it is usually installed on the column of the power transmission and distribution network, so it is named. The working principle of the pole mounted transformer on the column is based on electromagnetic induction, which creates a magnetic flux in the core when the alternating current in the primary coil changes, which cuts the secondary coil. This generates an induced electromotive force in the secondary coil. By changing the ratio of turns between the primary coil and the secondary coil, different voltage transformations can be achieved.
The pole mounted transformer adopts the column type suspension installation method, small size, light weight, small size, easy to install and maintain, small infrastructure investment, effectively reduce the power supply radius, high conversion efficiency, can effectively reduce energy loss, suitable for small and medium-sized power transmission and distribution system.
Pole mounted transformers are used to convert high-voltage electrical energy into low-voltage electrical energy suitable for home, industrial and commercial use, suitable for rural power grids, remote mountainous areas, scattered villages, agricultural production, lighting and power electricity, and can also be used for railway, urban power grid energy-saving transformation of column type distribution lines. Pole mounted transformers can also be used in power substations, industrial and mining enterprises, urban construction and other fields.
✳ For more detailed information about pole mounted transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/guide-to-pole-mounted-transformer-102979935.html
Unit Substation Transformer |  |
The high voltage part of a prefabricated substation is usually protected by a combination of load switches and fuses. When one phase of the fuse is blown, the three-phase linkage trip will be caused to ensure system safety. Load switch can choose gas, pressure, vacuum or sulfur hexafluoride and other types, equipped with electric operating mechanism, to realize the automatic upgrade of the system. The fuse is a high voltage current limiting fuse and equipped with an impactor to ensure reliable operation and large breaking capacity. The main switch on the low voltage side can use traditional or intelligent circuit breakers to achieve priority selection protection. It is recommended to use the new plastic-case switch, which is small in size and short in fly-arc, and supports the access of up to 30 lines. At the same time, the system is equipped with intelligent automatic tracking reactive power compensation device, and the user can choose the reverse cutting mode with or without contact points according to the demand. The whole substation is composed of high voltage room, transformer room and low voltage room, and the layout can be selected by mesh or font type, supporting terminal, ring network or dual power supply mode. Users can freely choose oil immersed power transformer or dry transformer, box design is reasonable, with enough natural ventilation holes and heat insulation measures to ensure the normal operation of all electrical equipment, such as user needs, can be equipped with additional forced cooling system.
✳ For more detailed information about unit substation transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-unit-substation-transformer-103150174.html
Oil-immersed Distribution transformer |  |
Oil-immersed Distribution transformer is a kind of equipment used in power system, is a high-voltage transmission line access to low-voltage electrical load when the voltage transformation equipment. Distribution transformers usually convert high-voltage lines into low-voltage lines and convert the high voltage level of the transmission line into the low voltage level suitable for the use of power equipment. Distribution transformers generally work at low and medium voltage levels, and are mainly responsible for reducing the electric energy of high-voltage lines to the low voltage required by homes and enterprises, and usually have a certain ability to adjust the load.
The main function of the Oil-immersed distribution transformer is voltage conversion and isolation, which protects the terminal equipment by reducing the voltage level to avoid damage caused by excessive voltage, and its working principle is based on electromagnetic induction. Distribution transformers not only have the advantages of relatively small volume and easy installation, but also can effectively improve the efficiency of power transmission and reduce energy loss. In modern power systems, the combination of distribution transformers and smart grid technology further improves the reliability and flexibility of the power system, helping to facilitate the access and distribution of renewable energy.
✳ For more detailed information about oil-immersed distribution transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-distribution-transformer-103133303.html
Compact Substation |  |
A compact substation is an innovative solution in power distribution infrastructure. It is a prefabricated, fully enclosed unit that integrates key electrical components such as transformers, switchgear, and control devices, featuring a compact structure for space saving, and is mainly used for power transformation and distribution.
It is suitable for scenarios with limited space or in need of modular, plug-and-play power supply. It includes medium-voltage (MV) switchgear, distribution transformers, low-voltage (LV) switchboards, etc., and is usually placed in a sturdy, movable steel enclosure with multiple protective functions like moisture resistance, rust resistance, and fire resistance.
This type of substation can be assembled and tested in the factory, greatly reducing on-site installation work. Internally, components are isolated by partitions to ensure safety, and it is equipped with lockable access doors for easy operation and maintenance. Compared with traditional substations, it has advantages such as shorter construction time, optimized space utilization, and improved safety, with strong applicability. It can meet the needs of modern power distribution even in public-accessible areas.
✳ For more detailed information about compact substation, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-compact-substation-103092432.html
Power Transformer |  |
The power transformers produced by SCOTECH rely on advanced calculation technology and professional design software to analyze the current density, insulation strength, heat conduction and various types of stress. At the same time, the electromagnetic field simulation technology is used to accurately evaluate the magnetic flux leakage, harmonics and dynamic response. We use highly accurate 2D and 3D models for design and optimization to ensure the best balance of performance and structure. After careful calculation and selection, the insulation material, wire size and magnetic flux strength are reasonably configured. Tank shielding design, minimal slotting scheme and composite wire design are adopted to effectively reduce loss and noise. We further analyze the natural frequency of the core and implement the multistage miter lap design to reduce the no-load loss and vibration noise. The use of high quality core fastening device and internal structure strengthening to ensure the stability of the transformer in the case of short circuit; All kinds of cooling schemes are carefully calculated, and the thermal characteristics of windings under different loads are considered comprehensively. From sheet air cooling to oil-water mixed cooling, the optimal cooling scheme is selected to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the equipment. All insulation and metal structures are rounded to reduce the risk of partial discharge.
✳ For more detailed information about power transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-power-transformer-103133312.html
Dry type transformer |  |
Dry type transformer is a kind of equipment widely used in power system, mainly used for voltage rise and fall conversion, which is characterized by the use of air as an insulating medium, rather than liquid insulating oil. This gives dry type transformers significant advantages in terms of safety, environmental friendliness and ease of maintenance. Because there is no use of oil, dry type transformers are not easily affected by environmental factors, and are especially suitable for use in places with high fire safety requirements, such as commercial buildings, residential areas and industrial facilities.
✳ For more detailed information about dry type transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-cast-coil-dry-type-transformer-103133299.html
Rectifier Transformer |  |
Rectifier transformer is a kind of power equipment specially designed to convert alternating current to direct current, which is widely used in industrial, railway and power systems. Its main function is to provide the high voltage and high current sources required for the rectifier device, usually in combination with rectifiers (such as diode rectifiers or thyristor rectifiers) to achieve the conversion of AC to DC.
The design of a rectifier transformer is usually more complex, with multiple windings that can provide different output voltages and currents to suit various application needs. In its working process, the rectifier transformer is designed to reduce the pulsation of DC current and reduce the influence of current fluctuations, thus improving the stability and efficiency of the system.
In addition, the rectifier transformer also has certain voltage regulation and protection functions, which can be adjusted for load changes. They are commonly used in high power applications such as electroplating, electric drive systems, rail transit and electrolytic processes. Modern rectifier transformers may also be equipped with monitoring and protection systems to detect operating status in real time and ensure a safe and stable power supply.
Due to their ability to efficiently convert and provide a stable current output, rectifier transformers play a vital role in modern power and industrial applications and are a key component in power electronics.
✳ For more detailed information about rectifier transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-rectifier-transformer-103133289.html
Traction Transformer |  |
Traction Transformer is a special transformer designed for railway and urban rail transit systems, mainly used to convert high-voltage power into low-voltage power suitable for electric locomotives or electric vehicles. It usually uses a fully enclosed construction to ensure safe operation in harsh environmental conditions. The traction transformer has a multi-winding design and can output multiple power supplies of different voltage levels to meet the needs of different locomotives and applications.
The main characteristics of this type of transformer are high efficiency, low loss and excellent environmental resistance, which can withstand frequent load changes and impact loads to ensure the stability of power supply. In addition, traction transformers are usually equipped with insulation systems and cooling systems, such as natural cooling or forced air cooling, to maintain their operating temperature and extend their service life.
✳ For more detailed information about traction transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-traction-transformer-103133317.html
Furnace Transformer |  |
Furnace Transformer is a kind of transformer specially designed for high-temperature industrial electric heating equipment such as electric furnaces, which is mainly used to convert high-voltage electrical energy in the grid into low-voltage electrical energy suitable for the electric furnace equipment. This kind of transformer generally has a high load bearing capacity and voltage regulation capacity to adapt to the large current fluctuations and transient overload generated in the heating process of the electric furnace.
Furnace transformers are designed with an emphasis on high temperature resistance, high reliability, and long-term stability, often in a fully sealed or oil-immersed construction to protect internal components from high temperatures and contamination, while also being able to dissipate heat effectively. Transformers are usually equipped with multiple windings, enabling them to output a variety of different voltages and currents to meet the needs of different types of electric furnaces.
The transformer has a high short-circuit impedance, which can effectively limit the short-circuit current and protect the safety of equipment and power system. In addition, efficient cooling systems, such as natural cooling or forced oil cooling, are designed to maintain the operating temperature of the transformer, prevent overheating, and extend the service life of the equipment. Furnace transformers play a vital role in metallurgy, casting and material processing industries, and are important equipment to achieve efficient and safe electric heating processes.
✳ For more detailed information about furnace transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-furnace-transformer-103191776.html
http://www.scotech.com/info/understanding-electric-furnace-transformers-103094424.html
Earthing Transformer |  |
Earthing Transformer (Earthing Transformer) is a kind of transformer dedicated to the power system, the main function is to provide neutral ground or enhance the system grounding performance to ensure the safety and stability of the power equipment in operation. Ground transformers are commonly used in three-phase systems where the neutral point is not directly grounded, forming the ground point through a silver spoon connection (such as the Yyn connection) or a zigzag connection (such as the Zyn connection).
When a single-phase grounding fault occurs in the power system, the grounding transformer can provide a path of grounding current, so that the fault current flows through the transformer back to the ground wire, so as to limit the occurrence of overvoltage in the system and quickly cut off the fault part, which is particularly important for the protection of equipment and personal safety. In addition, ground transformers also help reduce the impact of harmonics and improve the voltage stability of the distribution system.
Ground transformers are generally compact, have good voltage and thermal stability, and can operate under harsh environmental conditions. It is often designed with overcurrent protection and temperature monitoring in mind to ensure no damage to the equipment in the event of an accident. Widely used in power plants, substations, industrial facilities and distribution systems, grounding transformers are one of the most important components of modern power systems.
✳ For more detailed information about earthing transformer, please refer to the content in the following link.
https://www.scotech.com/info/an-overview-of-earthing-transformer-103163434.html
Conclusion
Choosing the right transformer is essential for ensuring optimal performance and efficiency in your electrical systems. Whether you need a power transformer for high-voltage transmission, a distribution transformer for localized energy delivery, or a specialized instrument transformer for precise measurements, selecting the appropriate type is crucial. If you’re still unsure which transformer best fits your project requirements, our team is here to help. With extensive expertise and a comprehensive inventory, we can provide tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Contact us today for expert guidance and a customized quote.
