Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 400 of 494
What is the Transformer Utilization Factor (\( \text{TUF} \)) of a standard single-phase half-wave rectifier circuit?
A
\( 0.287 \)
B
\( 0.693 \)
C
\( 0.812 \)
D
\( 0.406 \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: \( 0.287 \)
Concept:

The Transformer Utilization Factor (\( \text{TUF} \)) measures how effectively a transformer secondary winding delivers DC power to the load.

Formula:

$$\text{TUF} = \frac{P_{\text{dc}}}{P_{\text{ac(rated)}}} = \frac{V_{\text{dc}} I_{\text{dc}}}{V_{\text{rms}} I_{\text{rms}}}$$

Solution:

  • For a half-wave rectifier:


  • $$V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{V_m}{\pi}, \quad I_{\text{dc}} = \frac{I_m}{\pi}, \quad V_{\text{rms}} = \frac{V_m}{\sqrt{2}}, \quad I_{\text{rms}} = \frac{I_m}{2}$$


  • $$\text{TUF} = \frac{\left(\frac{V_m}{\pi}\right)\left(\frac{I_m}{\pi}\right)}{\left(\frac{V_m}{\sqrt{2}}\right)\left(\frac{I_m}{2}\right)} = \frac{2\sqrt{2}}{\pi^2} \approx \frac{2.8284}{9.8696} \approx 0.287$$


  • This indicates that the transformer must be sized \( 3.5 \) times larger than the delivered DC load power.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option B: \( 0.693 \) is the \( \text{TUF} \) of a center-tapped full-wave rectifier.
  • Option C: \( 0.812 \) is the \( \text{TUF} \) of a full-wave bridge rectifier.
  • Option D: \( 0.406 \) (\( 40.6\% \)) is the maximum rectification efficiency of a half-wave rectifier, not its \( \text{TUF} \).

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