Which component has a higher efficiency at 400 Hz compared to 60 Hz in aviation systems?

Transformers are designed to operate at various frequencies, and their efficiency can be significantly affected by the frequency of the alternating current (AC) they utilize. At higher frequencies, such as 400 Hz, transformers tend to be more efficient because they can be made smaller and lighter, which is particularly advantageous in aviation systems where weight and space are critical factors.

At 400 Hz, the reduced core losses and their magnetic materials allow transformers to operate more efficiently compared to their operation at 60 Hz. The geometry of the transformer can be optimized to better suit the higher frequency, which leads to less heat generation and better performance as they suffer from lower hysteresis and eddy current losses.

Although other components like batteries, amplifiers, and motors are essential in aviation systems, they do not exhibit the same pronounced efficiency correlation with frequency changes as transformers do. For instance, the performance of batteries is more related to their chemistry than frequency, while amplifiers deal with signal processing rather than the frequency of AC power. Motors can also operate at different frequencies, but their efficiency gains are not as significant as those observed in transformers at the same frequency transition. Thus, the efficiency increase of transformers at 400 Hz makes them stand out in this context.