Guides
Dimmering of transformers
Product for dimmering transformers for lighting purposes consists of a multitude
of types and manufactures. Dimmers can according to their methods of working be
divided into different types such as inductive or resistive dimmers, tyristor-,
triac-, or transistordimmer, leading-end or trailing-end dimmer.
A wrong choice of dimmer to a given transformer or a wrong choice of transformer
to a given dimmer leads to a poor result and can cause heavy heat development
in the transformer. In other cases the outcome will be that the lamps are flickering
at low, medium or full load and the transformer will hum. Even if you manage to make
the the right combination so that the dimmering characteristics are good this can
be at the cost of the EMC-qualities in the finished installation. It can also
occur that the deployment of a dimmer will prevent the normal protection functions
of the transformers to work properly. The guide below does not assume to be complete
and exhaustive and serves only to give certain general guidelines for dimmering of
transformers for lighting purposes. We accept with gratitude information and
experiences which will help us keep this information accurate, up-to date and reliable.
Types of dimmers
Dimmers used for dimmering of transformers are usually divided into
Triacdimmer (controlled by a diac-diod) working according to front end phase-cutting
of the sinuswave
- Properties:
- + ease of control
- + inexpensive
- - higher noise level. Ought to be placed so that the noise will not be
disturbing, e.g. not on a large surface which may vibrate.
Tyristordimmer (controlled by diac-diodes) regulating the sinuswave front end.
- Properties:
- + low noise level
- - more expensive than triacdimmers
Transistordimmer often called dimmer for electronic transformers and mainly used
for this purpose and for regulation of incandescent light.
Cuts the sinuswave rear-end.
Vrid transformer working according to the principle of changing the primary and
secondary turnover ratio.
- Properties:
- + complete sinuswave (no interference impulses)
- + completely quiet
- - no ease of control
Which type of dimmer will fit which type of transfoemer
| Dimmertype |
Transformertype |
| Triac |
Conventional inductive transformers with laminated EI-core or toroid |
| Tyristor |
Conventional inductive transformers with laminated EI-core or toroid |
| Transistor |
Electronic transformers |
| Induktiv |
Conventional inductive transformers with laminated EI-core or toroid |
Please observe that there are exceptions, for instance Osram has an electronic
transformer which requires dimmering with a tyristordimmer
For more detailed information you are welcome to contact us about dimmering.
If you have information you want to share with us please contact us.
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