Re: new power transformer (variac as ballast)

To: tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: Re: new power transformer (variac as ballast)
From: FutureT-at-aol-dot-com (by way of terryf-at-verinet-dot-com)
Date: Fri, 28 Aug 1998 16:38:28 -0600
Approved: terryf-at-verinet-dot-com

In a message dated 98-08-27 20:46:28 EDT, you write:

<< As opposed to welders, you can also use large variacs as the ballast for
> potential and pole transformers.  Bill Wysock suggested that I replace my
> welder with a variac when I was having problems with my system.  I was lucky
> to find a 5,000 watt light dimmer (Luxtrol D-5000B rated at 40 amps) and it
> works great.  I use this with 3.2 ohms of resistance in series.  This is
good,
> now I can leave the welder at work where it belongs.
 
> Ed Sonderman >>

Ed,

Did you have to cut a slot in the core to prevent saturation?  I've always
heard this was necessary.  Does the TC draw basically the same amount 
of current with the variac as with the welder?

John Freau