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JAWAHERLAL ENGINEERING COLLEGE, KHARGONE

(An Institution Affiliated to RGTU University of Technology, Bhopal)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING


DC MACHINES AND TRANSFORMERS
TWO MARKS QUESTION AND ANSWERS
PREPARED BY
Mr.Hemant Sawarkar (M.E.)
Assistant Professor
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

PREPARED BY HEMANT SAWARKAR, JAWAHERLAL ENGINEERING COLLEGE, KHARGONE

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2 MARKS QUESTION AND ANSWERS


ELECTROMECHANICAL ENERGY CONVERSION
1. How electromechanical energy conversion occurs?
It occurs through the medium of the magnetic stored energy.
2. What is prime mover?
The basic source of mechanical power which drives the armature of the generator
is called prime mover.
3. Give the materials used in machine manufacturing
Three materials are used in machine manufacturing.
(i) Steel to conduct magnetic flux
(ii) Copper to conduct electric current
(iii) Insulation
4. What is MMF? Give its expression.
MMF is the work done in moving a unit magnetic pole once around the magnetic
circuit.
MMF = N I (Ampere turns)
Where N = Number of turns
I = Current in Ampere
5. Define magnetic field intensity.
It is the MMF per unit length. Ampere Turn/metre
H = N I/L
Where,

N = Number of Turns;
I = Current in Ampere;

L = Length in metre.

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6. What is reluctance?
It is the property of the magnetic material to oppose the magnetic lines of flux.
S=F/ where F = MMF;
= Flux;

S = Reluctance in

Ampere Turns per Weber.

7. What is quasi static field?


It is the field pattern which is fixed in space but field intensity at every point
varies as a replica of time variation of current.
8. What is leakage flux?
The flux which takes a path which is not intended for it is called leakage flux.
9. What is fringing effect?
While passing through the non magnetic medium the magnetic lines of force try
to bulge out because the lines of force repel each other. This is fringing effect.
10.Compare electric and magnetic circuits

Magnetic circuit

Electric circuit

1. Closed path of magnetic flux

Closed path for electric current

2. Flux = mmf / reluctance

Current= Emf / Resistance

3. Reluctance=1 / a 0 r

Resistance R = l/a

4. Magnetic flux density B = /a

Current density J = I/a

5. MMF drop = S

Voltage drop = I R

6. Magnetic field intensity H = N I/l

Electric field intensity E = V/d

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11.How is the direction of induced emf determined?


Direction of induced emf is determined by using
_

Right hand gripping rule and

Right hand cork screw rule

12.State Lenzs law.


Any induced emf will circulate a current in such a direction as to oppose the cause
producing it.
e= -N d /dt
13.What is self inductance?
The emf induced in a coil due to change of flux in the same coil is known as self
inductance.
14.Give the expression for magnetizing force
F = B I l sin (Newtons)
Where
I is the current carried by the conductor in Ampere
l is the effective length of the conductor in metres
B is the flux density in Wb/m

15.What are the factors on which hysteresis loss depends?


The hysteresis loss depends on the magnetic flux density, frequency f and the
volume of the material V.
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16.What is core loss? What is its significance in electric machines?


When a magnetic material undergoes cyclic magnetization, two kinds of power
losses occur on it hysteresis and eddy current loss which together are known as core loss.
It is important

in determining heating, temperature rise, rating and efficiency of

transformers, machines and other ac run magnetic devices.


17.Derive an equation for energy density for a magnetic circuit.
Energy stored in the magnetic circuit = LI

2
L = N a 0 r / l
2 2
Energy Density = I N a 0 r / l
2
2
= B H a 0 r

since H =NI/l

2
= B la / 0 r
2 2

= B a /S
2

= /R Joules
18.What is eddy current loss?
When a magnetic core carries a time varying flux voltages are induced in all
possible paths enclosing flux. Result is the production of circulating current in core. These
induced currents do no useful work are known as eddy current and have power loss known
as eddy current loss.
19.How are hysteresis and eddy current losses minimized?
Hysteresis loss can be minimized by selecting materials for core such as silicon
steel & steel alloys with low hysteresis coefficient and electrical resistivity.

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Eddy current losses are minimized by laminating the core.


20.Write the equation for energy transfer.
Energy

input

electric

sources

from

mechanical
energy

energy

stored

in

output
magnetic

increase

field

in

energy

converted into heat.


For motors : electric and mechanical energy terms have positive values
For generators: they have negative values.
21.What is the basic feature of an electro magnetic energy conversion device?
They contain air gaps in their magnetic circuits in their moving parts.
22.What is the energy conversion medium in a singly-excited magnetic field system?
The

magnetic

circuits

have

air

gap

between

stationary

and

moving

members in which considerable energy is stored in the magnetic field. This field acts as the
energy conversion medium and its energy is the reservoir between electric and mechanical
system.
23.Why does the energy storage in a magnetic material occur mainly in the air gap?
The reluctance of the air gap is much larger than the magnetic material. Hence the
predominant energy is stored occurs the air gap and the properties of the air gap are
determined by the dimension of the air gap.
24.Draw a schematic diagram indicating flow of energy in the conversion of mechanical
energy to electrical form.
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Electrical
Losses

Gross
Electrical
Input

Electrical
Sink

Net
Mechanical
Output

Coupling
Field

Mechanical
Losses

Mechanical
Source

Ideal Conversion
Process

Net
Electrical
Output

Gross
Mechanical
Input

25.Why do all practical energy conversion devices make use of the magnetic field as a
coupling medium rather than an electric field?
It can be shown that the force density on the bounding surface of a magnetic field
6

near saturation is of the order of 1.02 x 10 Nm .

In electric field for the field intensity near breakdown the force density is only
2

about 39.8 Nm . The vast difference in the force density in magnetic and electric fields is
because of the fact that
in magnetic field

-7

= 4 x 10 H/m

while in electric field 0 = 8.85 x 10

-12

C/Nm .

26.What is single excited magnetic field system? Give an example.


If the electromechanical devices have only one set of exciting system it is called
single excited magnetic field system. Example: Reluctance Motor.

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27.What is multiply excited magnetic field system? Give an example.


If the electromechanical devices have more than one set of exciting system it is
called multiply excited magnetic field system.
Example: DC Motor.
28.Enumerate the chief advantages of electric energy over other forms of energy.
1. It can be generated in centrally in bulk and transmitted economically over long
distances.
2. Its voltage levels can be raised or lowered with ease and economically.
3. Electric lighting has no competitor.
4. Electric motors can be produced in all sizes right from few Watts to Mega Watts.
5. Domestic applications apart from lighting and fans are multiplying everyday.
6. All air-conditioner loads are now electric driven.
7. Attempts are being made to replace automobile engines with electric motors.

29.Give the relation between energy and co-energy for linear system.
Energy and Co-energy are numerically equal in linear system.

30.Define leakage flux. Does it take part in electromechanical energy conversion process
via the magnetic field?
Flux that links one coil (say on the stationery member) only partially passes through
the core, does not link the coil on the moving or rotating member or vice versa, is called
leakage flux.
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This flux though small, links each of the coils only. As a result, the leakage flux of
one member does not interact with the current of the other member and so it does not
produce mechanical torque / force. Thus it does not take part in energy conversion process.
31.How is voltage generated in rotating machines?
In rotating machines voltage is generated in windings or group of coils by rotating
them through a magnetic field or by mechanically rotating a magnetic field past the
winding or by designing the magnetic circuit so that the reluctance varies with rotation of
the rotor.
32.What is the expression for torque in terms of the resultant mmf wave F ?sr
T = -P/2 . /2. 0 Dl / g . F Fr

sr

sin

33.What are distributed windings?


Windings which are spread over a number of slots around the air gap periphery.
34.Why salient pole construction is a characteristic of hydroelectric generators?
Because hydraulic turbines operate at relatively low speeds and a large number of
poles are required to produce the required frequency.
35.Torque is proportional to ------------------------------.
Torque is proportional to the interacting fields and to the sine of the electrical space
angle between their magnetic axes.
36.How will you find the direction of emf using Flemings Right Hand Rule?
The thumb, the forefinger and the middle finger of the right hand are held so that
these fingers are mutually perpendicular, then forefinger gives the direction of field, thumb
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represents the direction of motion of conductor and middle finger gives the direction of
induced current.
37.How will you find the direction of force produced using Flemings Left Hand Rule?
The thumb, forefinger and middle finger of the left hand are held so that those
fingers are mutually perpendicular then forefinger gives the direction of field, middle finger
gives the direction of current and thumb represents the direction of motion of conductor.

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DC GENERATORS

1.What is the function of carbon brush used in DC generator?


The function of carbon brush is to collect current from the commutator and supply
to the external load circuit and to the field circuit.
2. Distinguish between lap winding and wave winding used in dc machine.
_

Lap winding is designed for high current and low voltage machines

Wave winding is designed for low current and high voltage machines

3.Write the number of parallel paths in a lap and wave connected windings
In a lap wound machine, the number of parallel paths is equal to the number of
poles. But in wave wound machine, the number of parallel paths is always two irrespective of
number of poles.
4. Name the three things required for the generation of emf.
o Presence of armature conductors
o Presence of magnetic field
o Relative motion between conductor and magnetic field
5. What is meant by self excited and separately excited dc generator?
Self-excited generator are those whose field magnets are energized by the current
produced by the generator themselves
Separately excited generator are those whose field magnets are energized from an
independent external source of dc current

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6. What is the basic difference between dc generator and dc motor?


Generator converts mechanical

energy into electrical energy. Motor converts

electrical energy into mechanical energy. But there is no constructional difference between
the two.
7. Write down the emf equation of dc generator. Give the meaning of each symbol
Emf induced E = ZNP/60A (Volts)
where
= Flux per pole in Weber
Z = Total number of armature conductors
N = Speed of armature in rpm
P = Number of poles
A = Number of parallel paths
8. What is pole pitch?
The periphery of the armature is divided for a number of poles of the generator. The
center to center distance between two adjacent poles is called pole pitch. It is also equal to
the number of armature slots or armature conductors per pole.
9. How can the voltage in a DC generator be increased?
Increasing the main field flux and the speed of the armature can increase the
voltage in a DC generator.

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10.What is critical resistance of a DC shunt generator?


The value of resistance of shunt field winding beyond which the shunt generator
fails to build up its voltage is known as critical resistance.
11.What are the conditions to be fulfilled for a shunt generator to build up voltage?
a) There must be some residual magnetism in the field poles.
b) The shunt field resistance should be less than critical resistance.
c) The field coils should be connected with the armature in such a way that current
flowing through them should increase the emf induced by the residual magnetism.
12.What do you mean by residual flux in DC generator?
The magnetic flux retained in the poles of the machine even without field supply
is called the residual flux.
13.A DC generator fails to self excite. List the cause for the failure for the failure.
a) Residual magnetism may not there in the poles
b) Direction of rotation may be wrong
c) The field resistance may be more than critical resistance
d) There may be disconnection in the field winding
e) Brush contact may be poor
f) The field coils may be connected with the armature to oppose the emf due to
residual magnetism
14.What are open circuit characteristics of DC shunt generator?
It is the relation between the field current and the emf induced in the armature.

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15.How can one differentiate between long shunt compound generator and short shunt
compound generator?
In a short shunt compound generator the shunt field circuit is shorter i.e. across
the armature terminals. In a long shunt compound generator the shunt field circuit is
connected across the load terminals.
16.Why is the emf not zero when the field current is reduced to zero in a dc generator?
Even after the field current/magnetizing force is reduced to zero the machine is
left out with some flux as residue. Emf due to this residual flux is available when field
current is zero.
17.Define the term critical speed in dc shunt generator.
Critical speed is defined as the speed at which the generator is to be driven to
cause self-excited generator to build up its emf for the given field circuit resistance.
18.On what occasions dc generators may not have residual flux?
The generator may be put for its first operation after its construction
In previous operation the generator would have been fully demagnetized
19.How the critical field resistance of a dc shunt generator is estimated from its OCC?
Critical field resistance can be obtained from OCC by drawing a straight line
passing through the origin and tangent to the initial straight line portion of OCC. The slope of
this line gives the value of critical field resistance for the given speed at which OCC is
obtained.
20.Define the term armature reaction in dc machines.
The interaction between the flux set up by the current carrying armature
conductors with the main field flux is defined as armature reaction.
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21.What are the two unwanted effects of armature reaction?


Cross magnetizing effect / Distorting effect
Demagnetising effect
22.Differentiate between geometric neutral axis (GNA) and magnetic neutral axis (MNA).
GNA is the axis which is situated geometrically or physically in the mid way
between adjacent main poles. MNA is the axis which passes through the zero crossing of the
resultant magnetic field waveform in the air gap.
23.In which part of the dc machine is the compensating winding situated?
In the slots provided in the main pole phases.
24.What are the various types of commutation?
Linear commutation
Sinusoidal commutation
25.Name the two methods of improving commutation.
Emf commutation
Resistance commutation
26.What is reactance emf in dc machine?
The self induced emf in the coil undergoing commutation which opposes the reversal
of current is known as reactance emf.
27.Define the term commutation in dc machines.
The changes that take place in winding elements during the period of short circuit by
a brush is called commutation.

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28.How and why the compensating winding in dc machine excited?


As the compensation required is proportional to the armature current the
compensating winding is excited by the armature current.
29.How is the interpole winding in dc machine excited?
Interpole winding is connected in series with the armature circuit and is excited by the
armature current.
30.To what polarity are the interpoles excited in dc generators?
The polarity of the interpoles must be that of the next main pole along the direction of
rotation in the case of generator.
31.Why are carbon brushes preferred for dc machines?
The high contact resistance carbon brushes help the current in the coil undergoing
commutation to attain its full value in the reverse direction at the end of commutation. The
carbon brushes also lubricate and give less wear and tear on commutator surface.

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DC MOTORS
1. What is the basic difference between DC generator and DC motor?
Generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Motor converts
electrical energy into mechanical energy. But there is no constructional difference between
the two.
2. What is the basic principle of operation of DC motor?
When a current carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field, a mechanical
force is exerted on the conductor which develops the torque.
3. What is torque proportional to?
Torque is proportional to the interacting fields and to the sine of the electrical
space angle between their magnetic axes
4. Distinguish between shunt and series field coil constructions.
Shunt field coils are wound with wires of small cross section and have more
number of turns. Series field coils are wound with wires of larger cross section and have
less number of turns.
5. How does a DC motor differ from DC generator in construction?
Generators are normally placed in closed room, accessible only to skilled
operators. Therefore on ventilation point view they may be constructed with large opening
in the frame. Motors on the other hand, have to be installed right in the place of use which
may have dust, dampness, inflammable gases, chemical fumes etc. To protect the motors

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against these elements, the motor frames are made either partly closed or totally closed or
flame proof etc.
6. How will you change the direction of rotation of a DC motor?
Either the direction of the main field or the direction of current through the
armature conductors is to be reversed.
7. What is back emf in DC motors?
As the motor armature rotates, the system of conductor come across alternate
North and South pole magnetic fields causing an emf induced in the conductors. The direction
of the emf induced in the conductors. The direction of the emf induced is in the direction
opposite to the current .As this emf always opposes the flow of current in motor operation it is
called back emf.
8. Write down the equation for back emf of DC motor.
Eb= P Z N P / 60 A, [Volts]
9. Write down the equation for torque developed in DC motor.
T d= IaZ P / 2

A , [N-m]

T d Ia
10.Why DC motors are not operated to develop maximum power in practice?
_

The current obtained will be much higher that the rated current

The efficiency of operation will be below 50 %

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11.Under what condition the mechanical power developed in a DC motor will be


maximum?
Condition for mechanical power developed to be maximum is
Eb= V /2
a or I = Va / 2Ra

12.Why shaft torque is always less than that developed inside the armature in a DC
motor?
Mechanical power developed inside the armature is
Pd= E Ib =a 2

NT d/ 60

Mechanical power output available on the shaft is


Po= 2 NT / 60
Pd P =o W +i W

Therefore shaft torque T is less than torque developed in the armature T tod meet the iron
loss W iand mechanical loss W .m
13.Why is the starting current high in a DC motor?
The absence of back emf at the time of starting causes the armature current to
shoot up to about 20 times the normal current, if no limiting resistance is included.
14.What is the need for starter in a DC motor?
Starters are used in DC motors to limit the high starting current within about 2 to
3 times the rated current by adding resistance in series with the armature circuit. Apart from
starting resistances, starters are invariably fitted with protective devices such as no voltage
protection and over-load protection.

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15.What is the function of over-load release coil provided in a DC motor starter?


Due to any overload in the motor, if the line current increases above a preset
value, the excess magnetic force causes the lifting of an iron piece. As the iron piece makes an
upward movement, a contactor fitted along with it causes the two terminals of NVR coil to get
short circuited. Hence the electromagnet fitted with NVR coil loses its magnetic force and
releases the starter handle from the ON position towards OFF position, thus protecting the
motor against over-load.
16.What is the function of a no-voltage release coil provided in a DC motor starter?
As long as the supply voltage is on healthy condition the current through the NVR
coil produce enough magnetic force of attraction and retain the starter handle in the ON
position against spring force. When the supply voltage fails or becomes lower than a prescribed
value the electromagnet may not have enough force and the handle will come back to OFF
position due to spring force automatically. Thus a no-voltage or under voltage protections are
given to the motor.
17.How does 4 point starter differ from 3 point starter?
In 3 point starter, NVR coil is connected in series with the shunt field coil. The
exciting current through the NVR coil in 3 point starter is same as the shunt field current of the
motor. In 4 point starter, NVR coil along with a high resistance connected across the supply
voltage. Thus the exciting current through NVR coil of a 4 point starter is purely proportional
to the supply voltage and independent of shunt field current.
18.Enumerate the factors on which the speed of a DC motor depends.
N = E b/
= (V a-I aR a)/
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The speed of dc motor depends on three factors.


Flux in the air gap
Resistance of the armature circuit
Voltage applied to the armature
19. List the different methods of speed control employed for DC series motor.
Field diverter method
Regrouping of field coils
Tapped field control
Armature resistance control
Armature voltage control for single motor
Series parallel control for multiple identical motors
20.Draw the N Vs E bcharacteristics of a dc motor for two different field currents.

If <Ifn
Nn
Ifn

E hn
21.What is the relation between electrical degree and mechanical degree?
Electrical degree e and mechanical degree are related to one another by the
number of poles P, the electrical machine has, as given by the following equation.

e =

(P/2) m
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22.What is the meaning of electrical degree?


Electrical degree is used to account the angle between two points in rotating
electrical machines. Since all electrical machines operate with the help of magnetic fields,
the electrical degree is accounted with reference to the polarity of magnetic fields. 180
electrical degrees is accounted as the angle between adjacent North and South poles.
23.List out some examples of prime movers.
I.C. Engines, Steam engine, Turbine or Electric Motors.
24.Give some applications of DC motor.
Shunt : driving constant speed, lathes, centrifugal pumps, machine tools, blowers
and fans, reciprocating pumps
Series : electric locomotives, rapid transit systems, trolley cars, cranes and hoists,
conveyors
Compound : elevators, air compressors, rolling mills, heavy planners.
25.Explain how the back emf of a motor causes the development of mechanical power?
Net electrical power into motor armature is P
=
=

mot

Z P I a/ 2

{ Z P I a/ 2

= E bI a
A
A) =

T = P mech

So it is power absorbed by E bthat gets converted to mechanical form.


26.Why a differentially compound motor is not used in practice?
As the motor is loaded, the series winding reduces the flux produced by the shunt
winding and so its N-T characteristic curves are upwards. Under accidental overload, flux / pole
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tend to zero and motor speed can increase to dangerous values. Hence they are not used in
practice.
27.What do you mean by constant torque operation and constant HP operation of speed
control in DC shunt motor?
Constant torque operation of speed control is Armature control method and
constant HP method is Field control method.
Speed and torque equations of DC motor are
N = K N (Va I R
a )/
a
= KNV /a as armature drop is neglected
T = K T Ia
At load torque T

= T motor at base speed N ,bapply full voltage to field; so I = If

f(max) .

Adjust armature voltage V toa rated value. With field remaining fixed for constant torque, I

should remain fixed at rated value. For speeds above rated value, reduce V , the
a speed reduces
as per the first equation, the motor draws rated I ata constant load torque. The speed cannot be
raised above N bas rated I cannot
be exceeded unless the torque is allowed to be reduced.
a
Keeping V aat rated value if I is reduced,
the speed would increase but torque
f
would reduce. This indeed is constant Hp drive.
28. State one advantage and disadvantage in the application of each of the three basic
types of DC motors.
a. Shunt Motor:
Advantage: Substantially constant speed i-e low speed regulation
Disadvantage: Cannot be used for constant speed application

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b. Series Motor:
Advantage: High torque low speed (at start) and low torque at high speed. This is
typical requirement for traction type of load
Disadvantage: Accidental no load can cause the motor to run at dangerously high
speed.
c. Compound Motor:
Advantage: Negligible speed regulation for cumulatively compound motor.
Disadvantage: Higher cost.
29.List all the important information on name plate of a DC motor.
kW, nominal speed, armature current, insulation class.
30.Why field control is considered superior than armature control method of DC shunt
motor?
a.The regulating resistance which has to carry only a small current is easily available.
b.Power wasted in regulating the resistance is very small and hence this method is more
economical.

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TRANSFORMERS
1. State the principle of operation of a transformer.
Transformer operates on the principle of mutual induction between inductively coupled
coils. When AC source is connected to one coil, flux is produced in the core, which links
both the coils. As per Faradays Laws of Electromagnetic Induction, EMF is induced in the
secondary coil also. If the external circuit is closed the power is supplied.
2. What are the main parts of a transformer? What type of material is used for the core?
Laminated core and primary and secondary windings are the main parts. The core is
built up of thin soft iron or high-grade silicon steel laminations to provide a path of low
reluctance to the magnetic flux.
3. What is an ideal transformer?
An ideal transformer is one which does not involve any power losses and also does not
have any leakage of magnetic field.
4. Mention two types of constructions used in transformer.
Core type, shell type and Spirakore type. Spirakore type is a latest transformer and is
used in big transformers.
5. Mention the difference between core and shell type transformers.
In core type, the windings surround the core considerably and in shell type the core
surround the winding.
6. What is the purpose of laminating the core in transformers?
To reduce eddy current loss in the core

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7. Why do we use iron core in a transformer?


Transformer action demands only the existence of alternating flux linking the two
windings. No doubt such action will be obtained if an air core is used. But it will be
obtained much more effectively if an iron core is used. It is because the flux is then
substantially confined to a definite path (i-e iron path) having a much more permeability
than air.
8. Where is core type and shell type construction suitable for a transformer?
_

In core type transformer, one limb of the core one half of primary and secondary
windings wound on it, low voltage winding being the innermost for mechanical
strength. This type affords better cooling surface than shell type and is therefore
more suitable for transformers which remain fully loaded.

In shell type, both the windings are wound on central limb. This type is applicable
for poor power factor circuits.

9. What is meant by turns ratio in transformer?


It is the ratio of number of turns in the secondary winding N to2 number of turns in the
primary winding N 1.
10.Why is the rating of a transformer given in kVA?
Copper loss of a transformer depends on current and iron loss on voltage. Hence total
transformer loss depends on volt ampere (VA) and not on the phase angle between voltage
and current, i.e., it is independent of load power factor. That is why the rating of a
transformer is in kVA.

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11.List four applications of a transformer.


_

It can raise or lower the voltage or current in an AC circuit.

It can act as an impedance transferring device by increasing or decreasing the value


of a capacitor, inductor or resistance in an AC circuit.

It can isolate two circuits electrically.

It can be used to prevent DC from passing from one circuit to another.

12.Give the emf equation of a transformer and define each term.


Emf induced in primary coil E 1

= 4.44 f mN 1(Volts)

Emf induced in secondary coil E =


2 4.44f mN 2(Volts)
Where f is the frequency of AC input in Hertz
m is the maximum value of flux in the core in Webers
N1, N 2are the number of primary and secondary turns.
13. Name two important electrical performances of transformers?
i)

Voltage regulation ii) Efficiency

14.What will happen if the primary of a transformer is connected to a DC supply?


The primary will draw a steady current and hence produce constant flux. Consequently
no back emf will be produced. The primary winding will draw excessive current due to low
resistance of the primary. This result in over heating of primary windings and the fuses will
blow.

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15. How does flux leakage occur in transformer?


The entire flux set up by one winding during load condition may not be able to reach
the other winding to carry on the useful purpose of energy transformation. Some of the
fluxes will be present in and around the respective windings only, causing self induced emf
in them. These fluxes are called leakage fluxes.
16.How do you reduce hysteresis loss in a transformer?
Hysteresis loss can be reduced by selecting suitable core material. Silicon steel is having
less Stein Metz hysteresis coefficient.
17.The efficiency of a transformer is always higher than that of rotating electrical
machines. Why?
In rotating machines, there are mechanical losses (frictional and windage losses) due to
the rotating parts. As there is no rotating part in a transformer, efficiency of transformer is
always higher than rotating electric machines.
18. Explain on the material used for core construction.
The core is constructed of transformer sheet steel laminations assembled to provide a
continuous magnetic path with a minimum of air gap included. The steel used is of high
silicon content sometimes heat treated to produce a high permeability and a low hysteresis
loss at the usual operating flux densities. The eddy current loss is minimized by laminating
the core, the laminations being insulated from each other by light coat of core-plate vanish
or by an oxide layer on the surface .the thickness of laminations varies from 0.35 mm for a
frequency of 59 Hz and 0.5 mm for a frequency of 25 Hz.

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19. List the advantages of stepped core arrangement in a transformer.


To reduce the space effectively
To obtain reduced length of mean turn of the windings
2

To reduce I R loss
20. Why are breathers used in transformers?
Breathers are used to entrap the atmospheric moisture and thereby not allowing it to
pass on to the transformer oil. It is also used to permit the oil inside the tank to expand and
contract as its temperature increases and decreases. Also to avoid sledging of oil i.e.
decomposition of oil, breather is used. Addition of 8 parts of water in 1000000 reduces the
insulation quantity of oil. Normally silica gel in pink colour is filled in the breather. This
colour will be changed to white due to continuous usage, which is an indication of
degradation in absorption property. Then it is normally heated and reused.
21. When will a Bucholz relay operate in a transformer?
Bucholz rely is a protective device in a transformer. If the temperature of the coil
exceeds its limit, Bucholz relay operates and gives an alarm.
22. What is the function of transformer oil in a transformer?
Nowadays instead of natural mineral oil, synthetic oils known as ASKRELS (trade
name) are used. They are noninflammable; under an electric arc do not decompose to
produce inflammable gases. PYROCOLOR oil possesses high dielectric strength. Hence it
can be said that transformer oil provides, (i) good insulation and (ii) cooling.
23. A 1100/400 V, 50 Hz single phase transformer has 100 turns on the secondary
winding. Calculate the number of turns on its primary.
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We know

V1/ V =2 K = N / N
2

Substituting 400/1100

= 100/N 1

N1 = 100/400 x 1100
= 275 turns
24. What are the applications of step-up and step-down transformers?
Step-up transformers are used in generating stations. Normally the generated voltage
will be either 11 kV or 22 kV. This voltage is stepped up to 110 kV or 220 kV or 400 kV
and transmitted through transmission lines. (In short it may be called as sending end).
Step-down transformers are used in receiving stations. The voltage are again stepped
down to 11 kV or 22 kV and transmitted through feeders. (In short it may be called as
receiving end). Further these 11 kV or 22kV are stepped down to 3 phase 400 V by means
of a distribution transformer and made available at consumer premises. The transformers
used at generating stations and receiving stations are called power transformers.

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TESTING OF DC MACHINES AND TRANSFORMERS


1. State the condition for maximum efficiency.
Constant Losses = Variable Losses
2. State the advantages of Swinburnes test.
No load Test
Less power consumed
Efficiency can be predetermined for both motor and generator
3. Is it possible to conduct Swinburnes test on DC series motor? Justify.
No. Because Swinburnes Test is No-load Test. No-load Test cannot be performed on DC
series motor.
4. Does the transformer draw any current when secondary is open? Why?
Yes, it (primary) will draw the current from the main supply in order to magnetise the
core and to supply iron and copper losses on no load. There will not be any current in the
secondary since secondary is open.
5. What do you mean by no-load current of a transformer?
It is the input drawn by a transformer from the supply mains when its secondary
windings are kept opened (or) no-load is connected to secondary.
6. What are the functions of no-load current in a transformer?
No-load current produces flux and supplies iron loss and copper loss on no-load.

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7. Why the iron losses in a transformer are independent of the load current?
The hysteresis and eddy current losses depend upon the maximum flux density in the
core and the frequency. Since from no-load to full-load the flux linking with the core and
the supply frequency remains constant, these losses remain constant, i.e., iron loss is
independent of load current.
8. How does change in frequency affect the operation of a given transformer?
With a change in frequency, iron loss, copper loss, regulation, efficiency and heating
varies and thereby the operation of the transformer is affected.
9. How will you transfer the

quantities from one circuit to another circuit in a

transformer?
1. Secondary to primary
Symbol

Value

2. Primary to secondary
Symbol

Value

V2

V2/k

VL

I2

kI2

IL

I1/k

R2

R2/k

RL

k R1

X2

X2/k

ZL

Z L/k

XL

kV1

k X1

10.Define voltage regulation of a transformer

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When a transformer is loaded with a constant primary voltage, the secondary voltage
decreases for lagging power factor load, and increases for leading pf load because of its
internal resistance and leakage reactance. The change in secondary terminal voltage from
no load to full load expressed as a percentage of no load or full load voltage is termed as
regulation.
% regulation down = (0V -V
2 )2x 100/0V
% regulation up

= (0V 2-V 2) x 100/V

11.Can the voltage regulation of a transformer go to negative? If so under what


condition?
Yes. If the load has leading power factor.
12.Full load copper loss in a transformer is 1600 watts. What will be the loss at half load?
2

If x is the ratio of actual load to full load then copper loss = x (full load copper loss).
2

Here W c= (0.5) x 1600 = 400 Watts.


13.What is the angle by which no-load current will lag the ideal applied voltage?
In an ideal transformer, there are no copper loss and no core loss,

(i.e. loss free

core). The no load current is only magnetizing current. Therefore the no-load current lags
behind by an angle of 90. However the windings possess resistance and leakage reactance
and therefore the

no-load current lags the applied voltage slightly less than 90.

14.Distinguish between power transformer and distribution transformer.

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Power transformers have very high power ratings in the order of MVA. They are used
in generating and receiving stations. Sophisticated controls are required. Voltage ranges
will be very high.
Distribution transformers are used in consumer side. Voltage levels will be medium.
Power ranging will be small in order of kVA. Complicated controls are not needed.
15.What is the purpose of providing taps in transformer and where these are provided?
In order to attain the required voltage, taps are provided. Normally it will be provided
at low voltage side.
16. What are the advantages of 3-phase transformers over 3 numbers of single phase
transformers?
o A single phase transformer occupies less space than installing 3 numbers of 1-phase
transformers of equal capacity.
o Cost of single 3-phase transformer is less than 3 numbers of 1 phase transformers.
o It is enough to install only one transformer.
17.State the conditions under which OC and SC tests are conducted in a transformer.
Since no load current, I is
0 very small, pressure coils of the wattmeter and the voltmeter
should be connected such that the current taken by them should not flow through the
current coil of the wattmeter. The transformer should be energized with rated voltage when
conducting OC test.
For conducting SC test, the secondary winding should be

short-circuited and a very

low voltage should be given for the circulation of full-load current.

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18. What is the purpose of conducting OC test on a transformer?


o X) o
o To find shunt branch elements of the equivalent circuit (R &

o To find iron loss at rated voltage.


19.What is the purpose of conducting SC test on a transformer?
o To find total resistance, impedance and hence reactance referred to a particular side.
o To find full load copper loss.
20. Why OC test is generally performed on LV side of a transformer?
The test voltage required, the rated voltage is less on LV side. This will also permit to
use voltmeter and wattmeter of lower voltage range.
21. Why SC test is generally performed on HV side of a transformer?
The rated current is less on HV side. This will also permit to use ammeter and
wattmeter of lower current range.
22.What are the advantages of OC and SC tests of a transformer over the load test?
The performance of a transformer can be calculated on the basis of its equivalent
circuit, which contains R ,0X , 0R

01

and X 01 (or R 02 and X 02 referred to secondary) These

constants or parameters can be easily determined by the OC and SC tests. These tests are
very economical and convenient because they furnish the required information without
actually loading the transformer.
23. What is the condition for obtaining maximum efficiency of a transformer?
The efficiency will be maximum when the variable losses are equal to the constant
(iron) losses.

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24. What do you understand by all-day efficiency?


The ordinary or commercial efficiency of a transformer is given by the ratio between
output (in Watts) and the input (in Watts) but the performance of a distribution transformer
is determined by the all-day efficiency. It is defined as the total energy output (kWH) in 24
hrs a day to the total energy input in kWH for the same 24 hours of the day.
25. List the merits of an autotransformer.
o Continuously varying voltage can be obtained.
o Requires less copper and is more efficient.
o Voltage regulation is superior.
26. What are the components of magnetic losses in transformer and on what factors they
depend?
i) Hysteresis loss W h = C hB

1.6
m

2 2
m f (Watts)

ii) Eddy current loss W =e C Be


Iron losses W i= W +h W

f (Watts)

Hence magnetic losses depend on flux density in the core and the supply frequency.
27. Why are iron losses considered as constant losses in transformer?
Iron losses depend on supply frequency and flux density in the core. For all normal
operations, the frequency of flux reversals which is same as supply frequency is constant
and the value of flux density more or less remains constant. Hence iron losses remain
constant under all load conditions. i-e from no-load to full-load.

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28. What are the various losses in a transformer?


i) Magnetic losses / Iron losses Constant losses
ii) Eelctric losses / Copper losses Variable losses
29.Why the range of efficiency is is transformers higher than those of other electrical
machines?
Transformers operate at higher efficiency when compared to other electrical machines.
This is due to the absence of mechanical losses which is due to the absence of moving
parts.

***** ALL THE BEST *****

PREPARED BY A.SIVAPRAKASAM AND M.SURESH, KONGU ENGINEERING COLLEGE, PERUNDURAI

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