Nikola Tesla Books
THE HIGH POTENTIAL TRANSFORMER 17 Fig. 1.-Simple open core transformer. Core is represented by C, primary by P, and secondary by S. A few general suggestions relative to each of these units and their relations one to the other will, it is believed, be conducive to a clearer understanding of the detailed directions which follow in later chapters. No attempt will be made, in the present chapter, to offer details of construction such as dimensions of the parts, as this feature is covered specifically in the directions given in succeeding chapters, each of which is devoted to a complete description of a certain type of outfit. The object of the general information in this and the following chapter is to afford the reader, who has delved but slightly into the intricacies of high tension electrical work, an intelligent insight into the basic principles of design and construction of the several units which comprise the outfit. Transformers. The transformer is essentially an alternating current device. In its simplest form, it consists of a core, C, Fig. 1, of laminated iron, a primary winding of insulated copper wire, P, and over this a secondary winding, S, also of insulated copper wire. An alternating current sent through one winding induces a similar current in the second winding. A variation in the ratio existing between the turns of the two coils, produces a corresponding change in the induced voltage.
