All You Wanted to Know About Ferrite Core Transformers

A transformer is a device used in the distribution and transmission of alternating current (AC). It does so by stepping up (increasing) or stepping down (decreasing) the voltage to attain the desired values. Hence, in simple terms, you can understand it as a voltage control device that works on the principles of mutual and electromagnetic induction.

To fit its use in a wide range of applications, we divided these into categories based on their phase, core and cooling systems. Below is all you wanted to know about the Ferrite Core Transformer, a type of transformer that uses ferrite cores. To understand that well, let’s answer the basic question:

What are Ferrites & Ferrite Cores?

Ferrites are ferrimagnetic ceramic materials divided into hard and soft ferrites based on their magnetic coercivity. Hard ferrites exhibit high coercivity, making them difficult to demagnetize and great for applications for permanent magnets. The low coercivity of soft ferrites changes their magnetisation easily. 

These soft ferrites are used to make ferrite cores. Ferrite cores are magnetic cores that allow easy windings to form insulators and transformers. Their wide range of properties like low losses and smooth working at high frequencies make them ideal for ferrite core transformers. 

Ferrite Core Transformers

These transformers are made from ferrite cores with windings made from ferrites. As the core is made of a combination of iron oxides, zinc, nickel, and manganese compounds, they flaunt useful properties like low coercivity, low eddy current losses, and high current resistivity which improve the transformer’s working.  

Another popular transformer is an iron core transformer. Here’s a brief difference between them:

Ferrite Core Transformer Vs Iron Core Transformer

As the names suggest, the basic difference comes in the core. 

Apart from that, 

• Iron core transformers have a low Q factor, which measures the coils' performance, capacitor inductor (in terms of losses) and resonator capacity of the system in a transformer. The other has a higher Q factor.
• Iron core transformers suffer from high eddy current losses as compared to the low losses in the ferrite core transformers. This is resolved by adding a laminated iron core.
• Iron core transformers have a low operating frequency, ranging from 50Hz-60Hz whereas its counterpart has a high operational frequency of 1kHz to 300MHz. 
• The core inductor in an iron core transformer is big and has a lower inductance value. Core inductors of ferrite core transformers are smaller with a higher inductance value. 

Salient Features

Lack of Eddy Currents

Since transformers work on the principle of inductance, there’s a varying magnetic field inside that gives rise to a localised electric current known as an eddy current. It negatively affects the working of a transformer. Even at high frequencies, ferrite core transformers keep eddy currents at bay, delivering excellent performance.

Core with Low Coercivity

The core made from ferrites pave way for low coercivity. This helps the transformer work efficiently as it doesn’t resist that constant change in magnetization. 

Shape & Size

Ferrite cores come in various shapes and sizes like the E core, I core and EFD core. This, coupled with its small size makes it a great fit for numerous ferrite core transformers.

Because of these factors, ferrites help these transformers replicate closely the definition of a perfect transformer. They also make these transformers capable of delivering consistently across a wide range of conditions. 

Looking for the perfect ferrite for your transformer? Look no further!

We at Cosmo Ferrites offer a range of ferrites, all of which are tested per the IEC 410/IEC 414 sampling plan to ensure an acceptable Average Quality Level (AQL) for major and minor defects. 

Contact us & get in touch with our experts.