Hi, folks.
I'd like to build a spot welder - ideally a bit beefier than the typical Internet DIY versions built from a MOT. Looking for something in the 15-25KVA range. Given most transformer ratings are for duty cycles WAY in excess of what a home-shop spot welder is going to see I figure I can get away with more of a 5-7KVA transformer.
My plan has been to source a suitably large transformer and replace one side's windings with a few beefy wraps of welding cable. (Or perhaps Litz wire.) However - somewhat serendipitously - a 7.5KVA transformer just dropped in my lap.
The problem is that it's a 3Ph model rated to take 480V down to 230V.
Anyone have thoughts on how I would go about building a spot welder from this thing?
I have 3Ph power in the shop so I can power the line side. I just haven't a clue how to deal with the mods or the load side. Looks like most commercial spot welders run from 3PH are inverter DC models. Not sure if there's a good way to do a traditional "hack the transformer" version of the home shop spot welder from 3PH transformer......
Thanks!
-Ben
I'd like to build a spot welder - ideally a bit beefier than the typical Internet DIY versions built from a MOT. Looking for something in the 15-25KVA range. Given most transformer ratings are for duty cycles WAY in excess of what a home-shop spot welder is going to see I figure I can get away with more of a 5-7KVA transformer.
My plan has been to source a suitably large transformer and replace one side's windings with a few beefy wraps of welding cable. (Or perhaps Litz wire.) However - somewhat serendipitously - a 7.5KVA transformer just dropped in my lap.
The problem is that it's a 3Ph model rated to take 480V down to 230V.
Anyone have thoughts on how I would go about building a spot welder from this thing?
I have 3Ph power in the shop so I can power the line side. I just haven't a clue how to deal with the mods or the load side. Looks like most commercial spot welders run from 3PH are inverter DC models. Not sure if there's a good way to do a traditional "hack the transformer" version of the home shop spot welder from 3PH transformer......
Thanks!
-Ben