RE: [TCML] Transformer

["Lau, Gary" <Gary.Lau@xxxxxx>]

The eBay link (which was sold) is not really suitable for a beginner's Tesla coil.  As it is rated 50kV @500mA, the voltage is rather high (you'd need more expensive higher-voltage caps, and corona losses would be an issue), the power level is high (your coil would need to be BIG and comparably expensive), you'd need a rotary spark gap, and this is not a current-limited transformer like an NST, so you'd need a current limiting ballast.  You didn't indicate what size or power level you're shooting for, so I'm just assuming this is a first-time coil.  Assuming so, just look for an NST.  Any size you find can be used, as long as it's a core-and-coil type (as opposed to the smaller lighter cheaper solid state units), preferably without ground fault protection.

Regards, Gary Lau
MA, USA

> -----Original Message-----
> From: tesla-bounces@xxxxxxxxxx [mailto:tesla-bounces@xxxxxxxxxx] On
> Behalf Of Robert Davies
> Sent: Monday, August 04, 2008 9:16 PM
> To: Tesla Coil Mailing List
> Subject: [TCML] Transformer
>
> Hello All, In my area here in Florida scrap metal prices are so high it
> is basically impossible to find anything in the low budget or free
> arena. It looks like I will have to buy a transformer. Which is ok by me
> I just don't want to get stung. My question is what price range should I
> be looking to pay for a suitable transformer. I found one on ebay
> http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180271844951&ssPageNam
> e=ADME:X:AAQ:US:1123
> <http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180271844951&ssPageNa
> me=ADME:X:AAQ:US:1123>
>
> Any advise would be most appreciated.
>
> Thanks
> Rob

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