EST (Energy storage transformer) is a special power transformer, which is mainly used to store and release electric energy in power system. Its basic working principle is based on the law of electromagnetic induction, which is similar to ordinary power transformer, but the design may focus more on the storage and rapid release of energy. The following is a brief description of the working principle of energy storage transformer:
Electromagnetic induction principle: When an alternating current passes through the primary coil (primary coil), an alternating magnetic flux will be generated in the iron core, and this changing magnetic flux will pass through the secondary coil (secondary coil). According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, an electromotive force is induced in the secondary coil, thereby realizing the transfer of electric energy.
Energy storage function: Energy storage transformer is used in energy storage applications, usually not to directly store electric energy, but as part of energy conversion and control. For example, in some pumped storage power stations, when the power grid is low, the excess electric energy is used to drive the motor (here the energy storage transformer can be used for voltage conversion to make the motor run efficiently), convert the electric energy into mechanical energy, and pump water to the upper reservoir for storage; when the power grid is in peak demand, this part of the mechanical energy is converted back into electric energy through the turbine generator and supplied to the power grid. In this process, the energy storage transformer plays the role of adjusting the voltage level and matching the electrical equipment.
Rapid release of energy: In some specific applications, such as flywheel energy storage or supercapacitor energy storage systems, energy storage transformers may be used to output electric energy at high power in a short period of time. When the stored energy needs to be released quickly, the electric energy in these systems is first adjusted to a voltage level suitable for the power grid or other electrical equipment through the transformer, and then released quickly to meet the instantaneous high power demand, such as in the peak load regulation and fault recovery of the power system.
Design features: Compared with ordinary transformers, transformers used in energy storage systems may need to have higher efficiency, faster response speed and stronger overload capacity to meet the needs of energy storage systems for rapid charging and discharging of electric energy. They may use special cooling systems, materials and designs to optimize performance, ensure long-term stable operation and efficient energy conversion.
In summary, the core working principle of EST (Energy Storage Transformer) is based on electromagnetic induction, and its role in energy storage systems is more as a key component for energy conversion and transmission rather than directly storing electrical energy. By flexibly adjusting voltage and matching the needs of different electrical equipment, it supports the effective management and utilization of electrical energy in time and space.