Isolation vs Control AC Transformers
A question that can arise is what’s the difference between Isolation and Control AC Transformers? To look at this, let’s define what each of these AC transformers is and what they do.
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Isolation Transformers
Isolation transformers provide galvanic isolation between input and output, with power transferred by magnetic induction rather than a direct electrical connection. A 1:1 isolation transformer maintains the same voltage ratio while separating the circuits for safety and noise reduction.
Some isolation transformers also include an electrostatic shield, or Faraday shield, which reduces capacitive coupling and common-mode noise from the supply side. This feature is especially valuable in sensitive applications such as medical and laboratory equipment. Power Source TX series AC transformers provide galvanic isolation, but they do not include an electrostatic shield. As a result, they can still be suitable for many installations, while shielded models offer stronger noise attenuation where lower leakage current and greater noise suppression are required.
Control Transformers
In most cases, a control transformer can take an input voltage from the mains and step it down to a safer control voltage for electronics. For example, taking a 240VAC input and stepping down to a 24VAC output is common practice.
AC Control Transformers Step Up & Step Down
This process is often determined by the relationship of the number of windings on the primary and secondary windings. If the secondary windings only have 1/10th as many windings as the primary side, this can be a step down, such as 480VAC down to 48VAC. The opposite of this is if the secondary features more windings than the primary sides windings, this transformer is a step-up transformer. Control AC transformers can be used for contactors, relays, solenoids and PLC inputs. Control transformers are also particularly good at maintaining secondary-voltage stability during inrush currents, more so than a generic transformer might.
As mentioned in the isolation transformer section, Power Source TX series AC transformers feature built-in galvanic isolation and offer a wide range of options to suit your installation's needs, with input/output ratios from 1:1 to 17.3:1.
If you’d like to learn more about the Power Source TX series and how it can support your AC-to-AC power installation, the ADM team is here to help! Give us a call on 1300 236 467 or send any questions directly to our contact page here.
