I have recently purchased off ebay a toroidal transformer with the following inputs/outputs: Two primaries constructed with about 14 gauge wire and three secondaries, 2 with approximately 10 gauge wire and 1 with 18 gauge wire. The price was right and I was going to re-wire the seconday for my 60 volt servos. However, I connected the first primary (white black) to 120 volts and my output was 39.7 volts on each of the high amp secondaries and 17 volts on the low amp secondary. I connected the other primary and got the same results on the secondaries (?). Also, I checked the voltage from one lead on one of the high amp secondaries to one of the leads on the other secondary and again got 39.7 volts, even though they are not physically connected (checked with an ohm meter). I figured this is some sort of induced voltage but that is just a guess while I'm trying to impress myself. Is this normal, the voltage, not impressing myself????
Now my questions, and forgive my ignorance! I'm trying to learn - safely!!!! Why would the transformer have two primaries??? Is there a way to load the secondaries with a resistor (or something) and determine what the maximum amperage is on the output or is there a formula or "rule of the thumb"??? Can I connect in parallel, both secondaries and get 2X the amperage, should I ever need it??? The transformer is physicall about 6" in Diameter and about 2" round and weighs a few ounces less than an ton. Is there a simple mount I can fabricate or where is a source I can purchase the mounts. I read somewhere that they should not be constructed of metal!
I kinda feel lucky in that the transormer was the correct voltage but I sure would like to know more about it and its maximum output so I don't go frying anything! (especially myself!).
As usual, all help is appreciated. This site is wonderful. I'm 53 years old and feel like a kid with a new toy during my lathemaster conversion. Thanks in advance!!!
billyjack :cheers: