How does a Transformer Work Alternating current metal the primary winding creates an electromagnetic field that induces a current in the vicarious winding when the field changes. Small transformers use enameled wire for their windings, while large transformers use insulated copper strips. Transformers can be single winding, center-tap, or multi-tap. Center-taps have a terminal at the middle point of the secondary winding, which has half the voltage of the end coach station. Multi-taps have many terminals along the winding, whose voltages depend on their locations. The purpose of the core is to direct the electromagnetic field through the secondary winding. Silicon steel cores area unit used for their high magnetic permeability. The insulated laminations work better than cylinder cores, by confining eddy currents, which reduces their losses. Uses of Transformers Transformers are mainly used to convert one voltage to another. The process of increasing the voltage is called “stepping up”, while decreasing the voltage is called “stepping down”. Most electronic equipments need a transformer to come down the mains voltage to a usable level. Transformers are also found in power adapters and battery chargers. Inverters are transformers which step-up a lowset voltage to a higher voltage, allowing a mains powered equipment to run on a battery. Additional circuitry is required to change the battery's direct current into alternating current. Transformers are used for electricity distribution to minimize energy loss over long distances. Higher voltages allow for lower currents, which reduces the losses caused by resistance.