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Re: [Amps] Transformer heating (problem?)

To: Amps@contesting.com
Subject: Re: [Amps] Transformer heating (problem?)
From: "Gary Smith" <Gary@doctorgary.net>
Reply-to: Gary@doctorgary.net
Date: Wed, 11 Feb 2009 23:46:31 -0500
List-post: <amps@contesting.com">mailto:amps@contesting.com>
I'm sure no expert, any chance the Iron's not built for 60Hz?

Gary KA1J

>     Corollary to a previous issue with a B+ transformer I passed thru the 
> group a while back, which before I repaired it had a current loop due to 
> bad/no insulation on the core bolts.  Transformer has a 240V primary, 
> 2800-3000V secondary rated at 2 amp CCS.  Is installed & in use on a HB GS35b 
> 6m amp.  When "module" testing the amp the transformer taps met specs, 
> measured with a Simpson 260.  Calculations based on measurements then 
> indicated a 12.5 to 1 ratio.  
>     Fast-forward to completed amp...After some occassional use (~30 minutes 
> of total operating time) am having the following "issues."  The 3000VAC 
> secondary tap is now only putting out 2700VAC with line voltage measured at 
> 243VAC  (240V mains line is 10 guage wire, a 10 ft run from the breaker box & 
> then 6 feet of 12 guage line to the amp...  original measurement taken with 
> same lines).   The even more disconcerting problem is that after a couple 
> hours of sitting at "idle" (amp on, power to B+ but no RF) the transformer 
> iron is getting hot- enough that you wouldn't want to keep your hand on it 
> for long, and particularly so near the left & right sides of the core. (Yes, 
> I checked the plate meter & no current thru tube, bias relay fine). 
>      Lamination bolts remain cold so no more current loop around the mounting 
> brackets....   I am baffled as to why this thing is getting hot just idling.  
> There is no "bleeder" per se on the PS, just 6 x 220k ohm Rs across each of 
> twelve 450V caps in series.  The only other constant current draw is a 5 MEG 
> dropping R to the B+ meter.  I am baffled as to why the transformer 
> laminations would get hot with almost no current draw, and am concerned that 
> once I really work this thing out during a contest or Es opening the heat is 
> going to short the secondaries.
>     Any ideas as to what could be going on?  Is this normal, or as I am 
> beginning to think, an 86 lb misdesigned piece of junk??? Any input 
> appreciated.
> 
>     73 Dave N3DB  

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