How does a transformer work?

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seis78

New Member

• Jun 3, 2009

• #1

Hello everyone, I make Steam engine generators from stepper motors. I am trying to power a small dc motor. The stepper motor only has an amp output of 160ma. I need more than this, can I use a transformer in the circuit to get to my goal? If so can someone point me in the right direction.
Electric Generator For Stationary Steam Engines - HOme old

Thanks

 

Sceadwian

Banned

• Jun 3, 2009

• #2

Using a transformer to increase current will decrease voltage.

 

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seis78

New Member

• Jun 3, 2009

• #3

I can get over 30 volts with my generators, some accessories that will be plugged into it will have the transformers in it not the generator. So loosing the voltage will be fine as long as it's in range. If it'll work this way.

 

Sceadwian

Banned

• Jun 3, 2009

• #4

30 volts under load? Use a 2-1 transformer it'll half the voltage and double the current (at between 70-90% efficiency)

 

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seis78

New Member

• Jun 3, 2009

• #5

where can i get one?

 

crutschow

Well-Known Member

Most Helpful Member

• Jun 3, 2009

• #6

A 115V input, 48V output transformer would be reasonable close (2.4:1).

 

Grossel

Well-Known Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #7

Another aproach is to put an capacitor in series with the output of the generator. It will work if the output frequenzy is fixed = fixed generator rpm.

But you must find the generators internal reactance to be able to calculate neccesary capasitance.

 

duffy

Well-Known Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #8

Damn those are cool, seis78.

I'm afraid a transformer probably won't work, the stepper generates 4-phase AC in generator mode, a transformer wants single phase. Can you use a lower voltage stepper motor? Otherwise a switching regulator module would be your best bet.

 

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seis78

New Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #9

Hi Duffy,

No I can't use a lower voltage stepper motor. But I was thinking to add the transformer to the accessory not the generator. I believe this is how the Plasma ball accessory I use is powered by my generator, but I could be wrong and this is why I am here.
Thanks for any help

 

crutschow

Well-Known Member

Most Helpful Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #10

Doesn't make any difference where you locate the transformer.

 

Grossel

Well-Known Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #11

What does accessory in this term means?

As a no native-english I cannot manage to guess. Tried a google search didn't provide any answer.

 

birdman0_o

Active Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #12

accessory means "add on" anyways, try out the transformer seis78

 

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seis78

New Member

• Jun 4, 2009

• #13

Where can I find one at?, Thanks guys