Alloy Grade 1050 1350 Aluminum strips are widely used in transformer windings due to their balance of conductivity, cost-effectiveness, and lightweight properties.
Transformer aluminum strips are critical components in electrical equipment, offering high conductivity, corrosion resistance, and cost efficiency. Here’s a focused overview of their use in transformers and related applications:
Key Properties for Transformer Aluminum Strips Applications
Property
Importance
High Electrical Conductivity
Ensures efficient power transmission (e.g., for windings and busbars).
Corrosion Resistance
Protects against environmental factors (humidity, chemicals).
Formability
Allows precision shaping for complex transformer designs.
Thermal Conductivity
Helps dissipate heat generated during operation.
Common Aluminum Alloys for Transformer Aluminum Strips
Alloy
Characteristics
Typical Use
1050
High purity (99.5% Al), excellent conductivity, low strength.
Low-voltage windings, connectors.
1060
Similar to 1050 but slightly higher strength; cost-effective.
General-purpose transformer components.
3003
Manganese alloy for increased strength without compromising conductivity.
Busbars, structural supports, heat sinks.
5052
Magnesium alloy with superior corrosion resistance (e.g., in coastal areas).
Outdoor transformers, marine applications.
Comparison of Grades
Grade
Purity
Conductivity (IACS)
Typical Use
1060
99.6%
~61%
Low-cost distribution transformers
1350
99.5%
~62%
High-efficiency transformers
1235
99.35%
~61%
Thin foils for compact designs
Advantages Over Copper
Cost Efficiency: Aluminum is cheaper than copper, reducing manufacturing costs.
Lightweight: Easier to handle and install, especially in large transformers.
Corrosion Resistance: Naturally forms a protective oxide layer.
Ampacity: While lower than copper, aluminum’s conductivity-to-weight ratio makes it suitable for many applications.
Transformer Applications
Windings
Used in low-voltage transformer coils for efficient energy transfer.
Busbars
Conductive strips for connecting transformer phases and terminals.
Heat Sinks
Dissipate heat in high-power transformers (e.g., 3003 alloy for thermal efficiency).
Electrical Connectors
1050/1060 strips for reliable low-resistance connections.
Manufacturing Considerations
Annealing: Improves ductility and conductivity (e.g., soft temper for windings).
Surface Treatment: Anodizing or galvanization enhances corrosion resistance in harsh environments.
Standards: Compliant with ASTM B209 (sheet/plate) and ASTM B249 (busbars).
Choosing the Right Alloy
1050/1060: Best for high-conductivity, low-strength requirements.
3003: Balances strength and conductivity for structural components.
5052: Optimal for coastal or corrosive environments (e.g., offshore transformers).
Common Grades for Transformer Aluminum Strips
1060:
Purity: 99.6% aluminum.
Conductivity: ~61% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard).
Use Case: Cost-effective for distribution transformers where size is not critical.
1350:
Purity: 99.5% aluminum, optimized for electrical applications.
Conductivity: ~62% IACS.
Use Case: Preferred for higher-efficiency transformers due to marginally better conductivity.
1235/1145:
Purity: 99.35%–99.45% aluminum.
Use Case: Thinner foils for compact designs (e.g., dry-type transformers).
