Articles on: Learning & FAQ

What is the Difference between a Transformer and a Frequency Converter?

What is a transformer?

A transformer is a device that uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to change AC voltage. The main components are primary coil, secondary coil and iron core (magnetic core). The main functions are: voltage conversion, current conversion, impedance conversion, isolation, voltage stabilization (magnetic saturation transformer), etc. According to their uses, they can be divided into: power transformers and special transformers (electric furnace transformation, rectifier transformation, power frequency test transformer, voltage regulator ,, mining transformers, audio transformers, medium frequency transformers, high frequency transformers, impact transformers, instrument transformers, electronic transformers, reactors, transformers, etc.).

What is a frequency converter?

The frequency converter is a power control device that uses frequency conversion technology and microelectronics technology to control the AC motor by changing the frequency mode of the motor's operating power supply. The frequency converter is mainly composed of a rectifier (AC and DC), filter, frequency converter (AC and DC), braking unit, drive unit, detection unit, microprocessing unit, etc. The frequency converter adjusts the voltage and output power of the output power supply by disconnecting the internal IGBT. Frequency, and provide the required power supply voltage according to the actual needs of the motor, so as to achieve the purpose of energy saving and speed regulation. In addition, frequency converters have various protection functions such as overcurrent, overvoltage, and overload protection. With the continuous improvement of industrial automation, frequency converters have been widely used.

What is the difference between a transformer and a frequency converter?

Transformer: Generally used for "step-down". It is commonly used in industrial electrical cabinets. It is more common to reduce 380V to 220V. It is mainly used when the local voltage does not match the power supply voltage. A transformer is a power converter, but compared with a frequency converter, it can only change the voltage but not the frequency.
Inverter: The inverter can not only change the voltage, but also change the frequency to meet the V/F control law. Frequency conversion is the change in frequency that the name implies, that is, the frequency of the motor. The intuitive point is the speed of the motor. In our daily life, inverters are everywhere. Drive mode: realized through its adjustment to meet our special needs for power frequency (50 Hz, 60 Hz, etc.).

The frequency converter cannot be used as a transformer. The principles of the two are different. The frequency converter can regulate voltage, but the output voltage is non-sinusoidal. The output voltage of the transformer is sinusoidal, which will cause problems with components or even burn out.

Updated on: 05/09/2023

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