We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Electrical

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is a Distribution Transformer?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,996
Share

A distribution transformer is a device that steps down voltage to convert it from the very high voltage used for distribution to the lower voltages needed by utility customers. A single transformer can serve several customers, and it is also possible for a utility to install a distribution substation for areas with high energy use, like industrial parks. The utility is responsible for installing and maintaining the devices to meet customer needs. Transformers pose a safety risk, and they are typically labeled and secured to keep members of the general public away.

Two basic mounting designs are available. Pole-mounted distribution transformer devices are used for lower voltages, like those needed in industrial neighborhoods, and may be familiar to some utility customers. They look like large canisters mounted to the sides of power poles. Pad-mounted designs are necessary for processing higher voltages and are found in large metal boxes at ground level. They are usually marked with high voltage signs and are locked for safety.

As electricity enters the distribution transformer, it travels through a series of coils that step down the voltage while retaining the original frequency. The transformer feeds the reduced voltage out to distribution lines, which deliver it to individual facilities with service drops. The size of a service drop depends on the facility; a single residence has relatively low requirements, while a factory or similar facility may need a very large voltage drop to meet its power needs.

Insulation used inside a distribution transformer can vary. Some are dry, and rely on air as an insulator, while others have liquids. The choice of insulator, casing, and other materials can depend on the type of voltage the device needs to be able to handle, regional electric codes, and the preference of the utility. Whether wet or dry, the device needs periodic inspection to confirm that the insulation is in good condition and the device is working properly.

Power companies can move or add distribution transformers to the grid as necessary to meet evolving power needs. Brief service outages may occur while the utility performs work, as personnel cannot handle these devices while they are live. Typically the utility serves notice when it knows about work in advance, and provides an outage window for customers to plan around. When a distribution transformer fails, causing a brownout or a full power outage in the region it serves, the utility acts as quickly as possible to restore power.

Share
About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a About Mechanics researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.aboutmechanics.com/what-is-a-distribution-transformer.htm
Copy this link
About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.