Galvanic isolation

A transformer is the most widespread example of galvanic isolation.

An opto-isolator is a very popular method of isolation in digital circuits.

Cross-section of dual in-line package opto-isolators. Relative sizes of LED (red) and sensor (green) are exaggerated.

Phototransistors are often used to drive high-voltage D.C. networks.

Galvanic isolation is a principle of isolating functional sections of electrical systems to prevent current flow; no direct conduction path is permitted. Energy or information can still be exchanged between the sections by other means, such as capacitance, induction or electromagnetic waves, or by optical, acoustic or mechanical means.

Galvanic isolation is used where two or more electric circuits must communicate, but their grounds may be at different potentials. It is an effective method of breaking ground loops by preventing unwanted current from flowing between two units sharing a ground conductor. Galvanic isolation is also used for safety, preventing accidental current from reaching ground through a person's body.

Methods

Transformer

Transformers couple by magnetic flux. The primary and secondary windings of a transformer are not connected to each other (with the exception of autotransformers which do NOT provide any galvanic isolation). The voltage difference that may safely be applied between windings without risk of breakdown (the isolation voltage) is specified in kilovolts by an industry standard. The same applies to transductors. While transformers are usually used to change voltages, isolation transformers with a 1:1 ratio are used in safety applications.

If two electronic systems have a common ground, they are not galvanically isolated. The common ground might not normally and intentionally have connection to functional poles, but might become connected. For this reason isolation transformers do not supply a GND/earth pole.

Opto-isolator

Opto-isolators transmit information by light waves. The sender (light source) and receiver (photosensitive device) are not electrically connected; typically they are held in place within a matrix of opaque, insulating plastic.

Capacitor

Capacitors allow alternating current (ac) to flow, but block direct current; they couple ac signals between circuits at different direct voltages. Depending on conditions, a capacitor may fail and become "short circuited", ending its electric isolation function, which creates risk to the "now connected circuit" and, possibly, human danger. To address this question, there are special ratings for capacitors used for safety isolation, such as "Class Y".

Magnetoresistance

Magnetocouplers uses giant magnetoresistance (GMR) to couple from AC down to DC.

Applications

Optocouplers are used within a system to decouple a function block from another connected to the power grid or other high voltage, for safety and equipment protection. For example, power semiconductors connected to the line voltage may be switched by optocouplers driven from low-voltage circuits, which need not be insulated for the higher line voltage.

Transformers allow the output of a device to "float" relative to ground to avoid potential ground loops. Power isolation transformers increase the safety of a device, so that a person touching a live portion of the circuit will not have current flow through them to earth. Power sockets intended for electric razor supply may use an isolation transformer to prevent an electric shock if the razor should be dropped into water.