power xformers in parallel

solder_city · Dec 28, 2005

hey...

if i am sure to get the windings phased correctly, is it ok to connect two identical power xformers in parallel to double the current rating?

im pretty sure the answer is 'yes' but i wanted to check with the gurus here before proceeding

thanks.

gyraf · Dec 28, 2005

They need to be damned identical, because any differences will cause shorting that part.

Normally, power transformers have to be wound bifilar to be really recommendable for paralleling..

Jakob E.

moamps · Dec 28, 2005

If the transformers are part of a DC power supply, the better idea is using separated bridges and then connecting them in parallel.

Regards,
Milan

BradAvenson · Dec 28, 2005

You could use one transformer for the +V and the other for the -V assuming of course you are working with a +/- supply.
Or if you had two channels you could make two supplies, one for each channel.

Just some other ideas.

PRR · Dec 28, 2005

> is it ok to connect two identical power xformers in parallel to double the current rating?

Yes.

moamps · Dec 28, 2005

[quote author="PRR"]> is it ok to connect two identical power xformers in parallel to double the current rating?

Yes.[/quote]

No, IMO.

NewYorkDave · Dec 28, 2005

I don't see a problem with it if the two transformers are identical (same make/model) and the windings are phased correctly. If the copper resistance and output voltage of the two transformers are the same, or very close, the current drawn will divide more or less evenly between them.