When a transformer core has air gaps, the reluctance (resistance to magnetic flux) of the magnetic path increases significantly. This is because the core material, typically made of iron or steel, has a much lower reluctance compared to air. Air, being non-magnetic, offers a higher reluctance to the flow of magnetic flux. As a result, the overall reluctance of the magnetic path increases when air gaps are introduced.
Why Magnetizing Current Increases:
In a transformer, the magnetizing current is the current that flows through the primary winding to establish the magnetic flux in the core. This current is proportional to the reluctance of the magnetic path. When the reluctance increases (due to air gaps), the transformer needs to draw more magnetizing current to establish the same level of magnetic flux. The relationship is given by the formula:\
Magnetizing Current ∝ Voltage /Reluctance
As the reluctance of the core increases (due to air gaps), the magnetizing current must increase to overcome this higher reluctance and establish the required magnetic field. This increased magnetizing current is not ideal, as it results in additional power losses and reduced efficiency of the transformer.
Effects of Increased Magnetizing Current:
Higher Losses:
The increased magnetizing current leads to more energy losses, particularly in the form of core losses such as hysteresis loss and eddy current loss. The increased magnetizing current can also result in the transformer drawing more current than needed, affecting its efficiency.
Reduced Performance:
Transformers with air gaps in the core often exhibit higher magnetizing currents, which can lead to lower overall performance. The increased magnetizing current can cause saturation issues in the core, reducing the transformer’s ability to transfer energy efficiently.
Effect on Voltage Regulation:
Since the magnetizing current is related to the magnetizing flux, higher magnetizing current can affect the transformer’s voltage regulation, making it less stable.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
(i) Reluctance of magnetic path is decreased:
This is incorrect because air gaps increase the reluctance of the magnetic path.
(ii) Hysteresis loss is decreased:
This is incorrect. Hysteresis loss actually increases because the air gap disrupts the smooth flow of the magnetic flux, leading to greater energy dissipation in the core material.
(iv) Eddy current is increased:
This is also not correct. While air gaps may affect eddy currents in some cases, they are not the direct cause of increased eddy current losses. Eddy currents are typically more affected by the material properties and thickness of the core, not the presence of air gaps. "Electrical Machines" by V.K. Mehta: