eristysmuuntajat

Eristysmuuntajat, also known as isolation transformers, are a type of transformer designed to provide electrical isolation between two circuits. Unlike conventional transformers, which may have a common ground connection or a direct electrical path between their primary and secondary windings, isolation transformers have windings that are electrically separated. This separation is typically achieved by winding the primary and secondary coils on separate cores or by using a magnetic core with no direct electrical connection between the windings.

The primary function of an isolation transformer is safety. By preventing a direct electrical connection, it can significantly reduce the risk of electric shock. If a fault occurs in the secondary circuit that causes a live wire to touch the chassis or ground, a standard transformer might allow a large current to flow, potentially leading to a dangerous situation. An isolation transformer, however, breaks this conductive path. While a fault can still occur, the isolation prevents the flow of dangerous fault currents from the primary side to the secondary side, making the equipment connected to the secondary winding much safer to handle.

Isolation transformers are commonly used in medical equipment, test and measurement systems, and industrial applications where electrical safety is paramount. They are also employed to prevent the propagation of electrical noise between circuits, as the magnetic coupling inherent in transformer operation can filter out certain types of electrical interference. The turns ratio of an isolation transformer determines its voltage transformation capabilities, meaning it can also be used to step up or step down voltage while providing the essential isolation.