Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast
Shenzhen Ruidian Technology CO., Ltd , https://www.wisonen.com
The transformer is an essential electrical device that operates based on the principle of electromagnetic induction to adjust alternating current (AC) voltage levels. It consists primarily of a primary coil, a secondary coil, and an iron core (magnetic core). Its key functions include voltage transformation, current adjustment, impedance matching, isolation, and voltage regulation—especially in magnetic saturation transformers.
Transformers can be categorized in various ways depending on different classification standards. There are currently five main classification methods. First, by phase configuration, they can be either single-phase or three-phase transformers. Second, by cooling method, they fall into dry-type and oil-immersed types. Third, by application, they are divided into power transformers, instrument transformers, test transformers, and special-purpose transformers. Fourth, by winding configuration, they are classified as two-winding, three-winding, and autotransformers. Finally, by core design, they can be core-type, amorphous alloy, or shell-type transformers. For more details, refer to the table below.
Figure 1: Transformer Product Classification Categories
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
Over the years, the number of patent applications related to transformer technology has significantly increased, driving innovation and supporting the growth of regional industries. With substantial infrastructure investment and rapid development in the power sector, the transformer industry has experienced remarkable expansion. During the "Thirteenth Five-Year Plan" period, the government focused on restructuring energy systems and building smart grids, which created new opportunities and higher technical demands for the industry.
According to data from the "2018–2023 China’s Transformer Manufacturing Industry Market Demand Forecast and Investment Strategic Planning Analysis Report" by the Prospective Industry Research Institute, the number of patent disclosures in transformer technology in China grew steadily from 3,362 in 2009 to 15,375 in 2017, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 20.93%.
Chart 2: Change in Transformer Technology-Related Patent Disclosures (2009–2017)
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
In terms of patent applicants, the State Grid Corporation led with 7,396 patents, accounting for 6.04% of the total. Baoding Tianwei Group Co., Ltd. followed with 790, while the China Electric Power Research Institute applied for 605 patents.
Figure 3: Composition of Transformer Technology Patent Applicants as of 2017
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
Regarding the distribution of transformer-related patents, the H01F class had the highest number, with 32,856 patents, making up 25.88%. H02M and H02J ranked second and third, with 13,603 and 9,580 patents respectively, representing 10.72% and 7.55% of the total.
Chart 4: Proportion of Transformer-Related Patent Technology as of 2017
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
The rise in transformer patents has driven industrial progress. Companies across regions have embraced innovative technologies to enhance production efficiency and optimize processes. Most transformer manufacturers are located in East China, where 49.10% of the country’s enterprises were based in 2016. Jiangsu Province alone had 340 companies. In terms of sales revenue, East China dominated with 50.04% of the total, followed by South China at 13.42%.
Figure 5: Proportion of Enterprises in China’s Transformer Manufacturing Industry by Region (2016)
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
Figure 6: Sales Revenue Distribution by Region in China’s Transformer Manufacturing Industry (2016)
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
Looking ahead, the transformer manufacturing industry is expected to follow three major trends: improved product performance, adoption of advanced technologies, and exploration of new materials. With the rapid economic growth and rising electricity demand, transformers have become critical components in power transmission and distribution systems.
As the smart grid enters a stage of comprehensive development, the intelligent construction of urban and rural distribution networks will open new opportunities. Smart grids and integrated equipment are set to experience significant growth, offering promising prospects for the transformer industry.
According to China’s power industry development plans, the transformer output is projected to reach 2.16 billion kVA by 2023, with the market expected to grow to 750 billion yuan.
Figure 7: Trends in the Transformer Manufacturing Industry
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]
Source: Prospective Industry Research Institute
Figure 8: Forecast of China’s Transformer Production Scale (2018–2023)
[Image: Transformer function, product classification, technology status and forecast]