7 Key Differences between Transformers and Inductors

Inductors and transformers are electromagnetic induction components that are wound with insulated wires and are also commonly used in electronic circuits. In spite of the fact that they look similar, they actually function differently.

What are the transformer?

The transformer is a component that uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to drive inductors. The circuit with the letter “T” (old standard “B”).In transformers, the ratio of turns between the primary (primary) and secondary (secondary) windings determines the voltage ratio or current ratio used to transmit and distribute electrical energy. Transformers consist of two insulated coils wound around an iron coreIt consists of a primary coil connected to an input source of alternating current, which generates a changing magnetic field around the coil, and a secondary coil connected to another circuit for output.A secondary coil generates an alternating current by using the magnetic field created around the primary coil. There is a difference in the number of turns between the two coils, and this difference determines the voltage.The turns ratio is the ratio of primary coil turns to secondary coil turns, which determines the voltage ratio between the two coils. The main functions of the transformers are as follows: the reduction and increase of AC voltage, the coupling of signals, the transformation of impedance, the isolation, etc.

What are the inductors?

Inductors consist of coaxial turns of enameled wire, yarn-covered wire, or plastic-covered wire wound on an insulating core or an iron core and a magnetic core. They are represented by the letter “L” in the circuit diagram. Inductor is a passive, double-ended electrical device consisting of a coil wound with a wire. The coil’s magnetic field temporarily stores energy when current flows through it. Voltage is created by any change in the flow of current. Henry (H) cells measure the inductance of an inductor, which is the ratio of the voltage to the current rate. There is a variation in these values from 1*H to 1H in the inductor.Magnetic cores, such as ferrite or iron, increase the magnetic field, which increases the inductance. The purpose of inductors in AC electronics is to block AC current while allowing DC current to pass. With capacitors and resistors, the inductor forms a resonant circuit by isolating and filtering the AC signal.

7 keys differences between Transformers and Inductors

1. In general, the shape, wire diameter, Q value, inductance, and magnetic core are the same. They can also be interchanged in theory, since they are essentially the same.
2. Transformers and inductors both have coil windings, but their structures and functions differ. Transformers must have at least one tap or two windings, and using different taps or windings to transform AC circuits also affects inductance. The inductor is a double-ended device with only one tap that stores energy and shifts phases. Wireless signals are converted into current signals by the coil winding in space, which is also known as the inductive coil.
3. The main function of a transformer is to convert high voltage alternating current into low voltage alternating current. It is the primary function of the inductor to isolate and filter the AC signal or to form a resonant circuit with capacitors and resistors.
4. The voltages generated are as follows: 1)The inductive reactance of inductors produces resonance with alternating current, but does not affect direct current；2)Transformers generate voltage by generating mutual inductance through their own inductance on the secondary side.
5. There is a difference in the connection method: 1)Transformers are connected in parallel with AC power sources in the circuit；2)While the inductance has a blocking effect on the alternating current, it does not completely block the current from passing through the circuit.
6. Alternating current is affected differently: 1)As alternating current is limited by inductive reactance, inductance is the limiting factor；2)Transformers work as alternating current loads, where they convert energy instead of passing it on.
7. The main applications of transformers are LED lighting, converter technology for commercial and medical use, high voltage and electrostatic spraying. Inductors are widely used in smart phones, cars, computers, television sets, and smart watches.