Xformer Info for Tesla Coils
Microwave transformer:
Most of these are 2Kv at 300-600ma. There are some that are 4Kv which are most likely in the 300ma.
The current limiting isn't that great on these types of xformers. So they should be treated like a non-shunted
xformer. Putting another one in series on the 120v side of the transformer with the secondary shorted will work.
You can use these in series with others to get a higher voltage. Some people have used as many as 5 in series
for 10Kv.
Neon sign transformer:
Neons come in a variety of voltages and current ratings. Most common current ratings are 30ma then 60ma, and
120ma being rare. They come in 4Kv, 6Kv, 7.5Kv, 9Kv, 12Kv, and 15Kv. The 9Kv, 12Kv and 15Kv are most common.
Neons are the most common kind of transformer used for tesla coils as they are sometimes easily gotten for free.
Other types of High Voltage transformers:
Other types of High Voltage transformers with enough voltage and current are usefull. It should have a Va rating
high enough to be worh while. 120Va or larger. Say 6Kv with 20ma. PT's are a good to use too. They are usually
2Kva, and should be limited like a pole transformer.
Power distrubution transformer (aka "pole pig"):
The all mighty "pole pig". More power than you'll ever need for a small to mid sized coil. These come in a wide varity of sizes
much like neons except much larger. Typicial ratings are 5Kva, 10Kva, 15Kva, 20Kva, and 25Kva. Voltages can
range anyware from 7.5Kv to 18Kv. It is most common to run them with the 2 secondarys in series and run 240v to
them. Pole pigs are used in a reverse configuration for tesla coil use. These should be ballested to limit the current.
The best and cheapest way I've seen current limiting do for these so far is. Using a isolation transformer in series
and putting larger heating elements on the other side. The reason for the isolation xformer is that is doesn't
make as large voltage drop like a heating element would. As the current pulled through the isolation xformer
(by the heating elements) is changed the current on the primary changes. You can use a variac or switches
to change the current level easiely.
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