K-Factor Transformers​

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K-factor transformers are special transformers designed to withstand additional heating and losses caused by harmonic currents from nonlinear loads.

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Loads such as motor drives, UPS systems, lighting equipment, control systems, telecommunication devices, medical devices, and server infrastructures can cause harmonic distortion in electrical systems. An increase in harmonic levels can lead to problems such as overheating, increased losses, strain on the neutral line, decreased efficiency, and shortened transformer lifespan.

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Omsan K-factor transformers are designed specifically for each project to provide safe, efficient, and long-lasting energy distribution in facilities with harmonic loads. Depending on the application's load profile and harmonic density, K-4, K-13, or K-20 options can be considered.

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What is the K-Factor Transformer?

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The K-factor value indicates the transformer's resistance level to additional heating caused by harmonic currents from nonlinear loads. As the K-factor value increases, the transformer is designed to operate safely in systems with more intense harmonic effects.

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Standard transformers can heat up more than expected in systems with intense harmonics. K-factor transformers, on the other hand, are specially designed to withstand these additional thermal stresses and contribute to safer system operation.

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​How Do Harmonic Currents Affect Transformers?

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Harmonic currents distort the voltage and current waveforms in electrical systems. These distortions can cause additional losses and heating in the transformer.

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The main effects of harmonics on transformers are:

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• Additional heating in the windings and core

• Increased losses

• Decreased efficiency

• Overcurrent in the neutral line

• Reduced insulation life

• Increased risk of equipment failure and unplanned shutdowns

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Therefore, selecting a transformer with the correct K-factor value is of great importance in facilities with high harmonic density.

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K-4, K-13 and K-20 K-Factor Selection

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The K-factor should be determined based on the load type and harmonic density in the system. For correct selection, the load profile, power requirements, application area, and system harmonic level should be evaluated together.

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K-4 Transformers

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K-4 transformers are preferred for systems with low and medium levels of harmonics.

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Typical application areas:

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• Discharge lamps

• Filtered UPS systems

• Welding machines

• PLC systems

• Control panels with low harmonic levels

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K-13 Transformers

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K-13 transformers are used in systems with medium to high levels of harmonics. They are frequently preferred in commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and telecommunication applications.

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Typical application areas:

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• Telecommunication equipment

• Unfiltered UPS systems

• Computer and office equipment

• Hospital electrical systems

• School and public buildings

• Automation systems

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K-20 Transformers

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K-20 transformers are suitable for critical systems with high harmonic density. They provide safe operation in applications where uninterrupted power continuity is important.

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Typical application areas:

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• Server rooms and data centers

• Variable frequency motor drives

• Operating room and medical device systems

• Critical power distribution systems

• Industrial facilities with high electronic loads

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Application Areas

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K-factor transformers can be used in many different areas where harmonic effects are intense.

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Main areas of application:

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• Industrial facilities

• Data centers

• Hospitals

• Schools and public buildings

• Telecommunication centers

• UPS systems

• Automation panels

• Motor drive systems

• Commercial buildings

• Critical power distribution systems

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Omsan K-Factor Transformer Solutions

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Omsan offers K-factor transformer solutions for different application needs. Products are designed by evaluating the project's technical requirements, load characteristics, and operating conditions.

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Omsan K-factor transformers:

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• Provide safe operation with harmonic loads.

• Help reduce the risk of overheating.

• Support energy continuity.

• Contribute to the preservation of equipment lifespan.

• Can be manufactured according to project-specific technical needs.

• Offer suitable solutions for industrial and commercial applications.

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Information Required for Selecting the Correct K-Factor

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The following information is important for determining the appropriate K-factor transformer for your project:

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• Transformer power

• Input and output voltage values

• Number of phases

• Load type

• Information on harmonic-generating equipment such as UPS, drive, server, or medical device

• Operating environment

• Protection class requirement

• Mounting type

• Special dimensions or panel compatibility requirements

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Based on this information, the most suitable K-4, K-13, or K-20 transformer can be selected for your application.

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Technical Quotation and Ordering

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K-factor transformers are an important solution for safe and long-lasting energy distribution in facilities with harmonic loads. The correctly selected K-factor value increases system reliability, reduces the risk of transformer overheating, and helps prevent unplanned shutdowns.

To determine the appropriate K-factor value for your project or to receive a technical proposal, you can share your power requirements, load profile, and application area with us. The Omsan technical team will provide support in selecting the transformer suitable for your application.