Voltage Regulation Formula:
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Voltage regulation measures the change in output voltage of a transformer from no-load to full-load conditions. It indicates how well a transformer maintains constant secondary voltage under varying load conditions.
The calculator uses the voltage regulation formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the percentage difference between the no-load and full-load voltages relative to the full-load voltage.
Details: Good voltage regulation is crucial for stable power supply to connected equipment. Poor regulation can cause voltage fluctuations that may damage sensitive electronics or affect performance.
Tips: Measure the transformer's secondary voltage with no load connected (Vnl) and at full rated load (Vfl). Enter both values in volts. Full-load voltage must be greater than zero.
Q1: What is considered good voltage regulation?
A: Generally, regulation below 5% is good for most applications. Power transformers typically have 2-5% regulation.
Q2: Why does voltage drop with load?
A: Voltage drops due to transformer impedance (resistance and reactance) which causes voltage loss when current flows.
Q3: Can voltage regulation be negative?
A: Yes, with capacitive loads the full-load voltage can be higher than no-load voltage, resulting in negative regulation.
Q4: How does transformer design affect regulation?
A: Lower impedance transformers have better regulation but may have higher short-circuit currents.
Q5: Is this different for three-phase transformers?
A: The same formula applies, but measurements should be made phase-to-phase or phase-to-neutral consistently.