Different Transformers and Their Corresponding Silicon Steel Sheets

In the design and manufacturing of transformers, selecting the appropriate type of silicon steel sheet is essential for optimizing performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The characteristics of transformers—such as their size, operating frequency, and application—determine the specific type of silicon steel sheet that should be used in their cores. Here, we will explore how different transformers correspond to different types of silicon steel sheets.

1. Power Transformers: Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel (GO)

Power transformers are typically used in high-voltage applications, such as electricity transmission grids, where efficiency and low energy losses are critical. For these transformers, Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel (GO) is the material of choice. The main reasons for this include:

• Optimized Magnetic Properties: GO silicon steel is specifically processed to enhance its magnetic properties in the rolling direction, making it ideal for large transformers that require efficient energy conversion.
• Low Core Loss: The low core loss characteristics of GO silicon steel significantly reduce both hysteresis and eddy current losses, especially under low-frequency conditions.
• High Magnetic Flux Density: GO silicon steel can sustain high magnetic flux densities, which is vital for minimizing the core size of power transformers while maintaining high efficiency.

This material is commonly used in high-voltage power transformers and distribution transformers.

2. Distribution Transformers: Thin Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel

Distribution transformers operate in medium-voltage networks, typically converting high-voltage electricity from power grids to a lower voltage for use in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Thin Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel is often preferred for these transformers:

• Lower Eddy Current Losses: Using thinner silicon steel sheets, such as 0.23 mm or 0.27 mm, helps minimize eddy current losses, particularly in transformers operating at lower loads.
• Compact Design: Thin silicon steel sheets allow for a more compact transformer core, reducing the overall size of distribution transformers and making them more efficient in space-constrained environments.

Thin GO silicon steel is used in medium-voltage distribution transformers and pole-mounted transformers.

3. Small Transformers: Non-Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel (NGO)

For smaller transformers, such as those used in household appliances or small industrial equipment,Such as pole mounted transformers, pad mounted transformers ，Non-Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel (NGO) is commonly used:

• Cost-Effective: NGO silicon steel has a more straightforward manufacturing process compared to GO silicon steel, making it less expensive and suitable for smaller, low-cost transformers.
• Isotropic Magnetic Properties: NGO silicon steel provides isotropic magnetic performance, meaning that its magnetic properties are the same in all directions. This is beneficial in applications where the magnetic flux flows in multiple directions.
• Versatility: NGO silicon steel is highly versatile and can be used in various transformer types that do not require the same high-efficiency performance as power or distribution transformers.

NGO silicon steel is typically used in small distribution transformers, instrument transformers, and household transformers.

4. High-Frequency Transformers: Amorphous Silicon Steel

In high-frequency transformers, such as those used in certain industrial and electronic applications, the primary concern is minimizing core losses at high operating frequencies. For these transformers, Amorphous Silicon Steel or Nanocrystalline Alloys are more suitable:

• Extremely Low Core Losses: Amorphous silicon steel has an irregular atomic structure, which significantly reduces hysteresis losses. This makes it highly efficient at higher frequencies.
• High Resistivity: The high electrical resistivity of amorphous silicon steel minimizes eddy current losses, making it ideal for high-frequency operations.
• Energy Efficiency: High-frequency transformers built with amorphous silicon steel can operate at higher efficiency, reducing energy waste and improving overall performance.

This material is often used in high-frequency transformers, inverter transformers, and power electronics applications.

5. Specialty Transformers: Advanced Materials (Nanocrystalline or Superconducting Materials)

For transformers operating in highly specialized environments, such as research facilities, aerospace, or renewable energy sectors, advanced materials like nanocrystalline or even superconducting materials are sometimes used:

• Nanocrystalline Alloys: These materials provide even lower core losses than traditional silicon steel sheets, making them suitable for high-performance transformers.
• Superconducting Materials: In cutting-edge applications, superconducting materials are being explored to create transformers with almost zero energy losses, particularly in applications where extreme efficiency is required.

Such materials are typically used in research and development transformers, renewable energy transformers, or high-performance industrial transformers.

Summary of Silicon Steel Sheet Selection by Transformer Type:

Conclusion

The selection of the appropriate silicon steel sheet is a critical factor in transformer design and manufacturing. Different transformers, based on their operational requirements and application environments, correspond to different types of silicon steel sheets. Whether it’s high-efficiency power transformers or compact distribution transformers, understanding the properties of each type of silicon steel ensures optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

At Evernew Transformer, we provide tailored solutions with high-quality silicon steel sheets for various transformer types, ensuring both efficiency and reliability. Contact us for further consultation on selecting the best materials for your transformer projects.