What does an iron core isolation transformer primarily prevent?

An iron core isolation transformer is primarily designed to prevent the circulation of eddy currents. Eddy currents are loops of electric current that are induced within conductors by a changing magnetic field in the conductor due to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. These currents can create undesirable heating and energy losses when AC power flows through the transformer.

By utilizing an iron core, the isolation transformer effectively increases the magnetic coupling between the primary and secondary windings while also providing a path to minimize the development of these currents. This structure reduces energy losses, enhances efficiency, and maintains the integrity of the signal being transferred.

Moreover, isolation transformers also serve to decouple the input and output circuits, which can further reduce the risk of noise and interference but their primary role is in managing eddy currents through their design. Thus, the ability to minimize these currents is a fundamental characteristic that plays a significant role in their function.