Transformer Notes:

Construction In the vast majority of transformers, the windings are coils wound around a ferromagnetic core, air-core transformers being a notable exception. In an ideal transformer, the induced voltage in the secondary winding ( Vs) is in proportion to the primary voltage (Vp), and is given by the ratio of the number of turns in the secondary ( Ns) to the number of turns in the primary ( Np) as follows:

Inherently Limited Transformer Where the secondary short circuit condition after one minute does not exceed 8A for "Class 2" and 150V for "Class 3" (V is maximum no-load condition). Inherently limited transformers rely on the coil winding design to limit the output current. Inherently limited transformers are typically rated up to 55 VA. if overloaded, will short itself out and fail safely, not requiring a fuse.

Not-Inherently Limited Transformer Where an overcurrent protective device is either incorporated in the transformer or is required to be provided in the application. Refer to UL 1585, Table 27.3 (Current and Power Limitations) and Table 28.1 (Calibration Provisions) for further details. Non-inherently limited transformers require a fuse or circuit breaker to limit the output (secondary) current to safe levels in the event of an overload or short circuit. Non-inherently limited transformers are typically 55 VA to 100 VA. Calculation of VA Requirements Complex Power (S): Volt-Ampere [VA] Transformer voltages are in RMS Transformer power is rated by the VA (Volt-Ampere) capability. To determine the required transformer VA, multiply the transformer output voltage (VAC) by the current required (Amps.) to power the load. VA = Volts x Amperes To determine the maximum output current of a transformer; divide the transformer VA rating by the transformer output voltage (VAC). Amperes = VA / VAC Temperature Rise Resistance Method

in which: Dt is the temperature rise of the winding in degrees C; R is the resistance of the coil at the end of the test in ohms; r is the resistance of the coil at the beginning of the test in ohms; t1 is the room temperature in degrees C at the beginning of the test; t2 is the room temperature in degrees C at the end of the test; and k is 234.5 for copper, 225 for electrical conductor grade (EC) aluminum; values of the constant for other conductors are to be determined. The winding is to be at room temperature at the start of the test.

Class II Class II transformers meet Safety Agency requirements to limit output current to safe levels in the event of a short circuit or overload on the control voltage side of the transformer. A Class II transformer is used to supply Class II circuits. Class II transformers have a maximum VA (Volt-Ampere) rating of less than 100 and a maximum secondary output of 30 VAC. The maximum VA generally offered is 75 and the most common secondary voltage is 24 VAC. All Class II transformers are either inherently or non-inherently limited. This means that the maximum output current of the transformer is limited, either by the intrinsic coil impedance or by a fuse or circuit breaker. These transformers are designed to meet the requirements of U.L. 1585. Class II transformers up to 50 VA are Inherently Limited Non-Inherently Energy Limited Transformers - 60 thru 75 VA Class II transformers are generally protected by a resettable circuit breaker or a fuse within the transformer secondary. Without this overload protection, the transformer would not satisfy the safety requirements for a Class II circuit.