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What Is a Rotary Transformer?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 17, 2024

A rotary transformer is a type of variable frequency transformer that helps to enhance the process of allowing the electric signals that are associated with two components rotating near one another to connect without the generation of any type of undesirable activity. This process can help to reduce wear and tear on the components involved as well as help the equipment containing the components to function more efficiently.

This function of the rotary transformer is possible because of the basic design used for this type of electronic device. The configuration calls for the placement of windings in two halves of a common cup core, with one of the windings designated as the primary winding and the other identified as the secondary winding. When mounted into position, these two halves are facing one another in relation to the rotating or moving components. The result of this design is to allow for the smooth operation of the rotating parts without experiencing some of the more undesirable effects that would occur with a different transformer design.

A rotary transformer, which properly installed, can help to reduce the incidence of a number of issues that would over time have a detrimental impact on the machinery. Thanks to the unique design, the potential for some sort of contact between the moving parts is kept to a minimum. This in turn helps to reduce both friction during operation and wear and tear on the moving parts, and allows the speed that the moving parts rotate to remain within acceptable levels. The end result is a longer life for the equipment, which in turn helps to promote production and keep the costs of repair and replacement relatively low.

One of the more common examples of how a rotary transformer may be used is found in various types of recording equipment, including video cassette player/recorders. The function of the transformer helps to protect the movement of the heads used to guide the tape through the process, resulting in more efficient results. The rotary transformer is also used in a number of different types of motors, helping to reduce wear and tear between the torque sensors found in many different types of motors today. Typically, this type of transformer is utilized in designs that rely on the use of alternating current (AC) power, with other devices used when the equipment is designed to make use of direct current (DC) power.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including About Mechanics, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
By hamje32 — On Nov 12, 2011

@allenJo - Yeah, once you start getting streaks on your video image I think it’s time to junk the VCR. I used to think that it was because the drum heads were bad.

However, based on what I am reading here I am beginning to suspect that the rotary transformer could play a role as well. Once they break down they might not be as effective in transmitting electrical signals to the drum heads, and this could cause the streaking that you see.

In either case, there’s no point in repairing them, with VCRs being as cheap as they are nowadays. You can buy VCR/DVD combo player units for next to nothing.

By allenJo — On Nov 11, 2011

Sometimes I like to scrounge around in old electronics appliances before I junk them, to look for user serviceable parts.

I remember ripping apart an old VCR I had before I tossed it away. It’s quite instructive to analyze the bright shiny silver drum heads that are responsible for spinning the tape of your VCR.

Of course I didn’t have any need for this part but I removed it from its base and saw the rotary transformer that was responsible for transmitting the electrical signals to the drums. Rotary transformer design seems to be very efficient and clean, from what I could tell.

I think it’s the reason the old VCR lasted so many years without any issues before I was forced to throw it away.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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