| Electronics > Beginners |
| MOT (microwave oven transformer) cooling. |
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| davelectronic:
I'm looking for some ideas to cool a single MOT. I've used a few single transformer in the past, but as most know they run hot as a single unit. Knowing that current limiting is the best option for better cooling and efficiency, it's not practical for the foot print I'm looking for. As for cooling a single unit fan alone is not that great, I hit the high 80°C when loaded. I realise that's not that hot for a MOT, but the core temperature is sure to be far higher. Having had a think on it, I've come up with modified air cooling using heatsinks attached to the transformer frame to increase surface area of the iron. But attaching the heatsinks is a bit of problem. I know there are thermal glues, but sure these are for small heatsinks, and there transfer temperature rating isn't that good. So I was wondering if its viable to drill and tap two M3 holes on each side to aid attaching the heatsinks ? My concern here is not wanting to upset the laminations with possible shorting. Any thoughts appreciated, my other idea is oil cooling in a suitable casing that can be sealed. It seems a messy headache to go through, and I'm unsure of longevity of the cooling oil. I'm learning towards heatsinks, but don't want to degrade the iron core. If I could current limit with out adding bulk I would do that, I thought about a triac type dimmer switch of up to 1000 watts, but gather these are not suitable as the modify the sine wave of the AC and will probably over heat the primary winding. Also I think there not suited to inductive loads. Thoughts at ideas appreciated. Thanks for reading. :) |
| joseph nicholas:
Without knowing what you're using it for, its hard to reply. If you could elaborate more on your ultimate goal it would be useful. |
| davelectronic:
Thank you for replying. Yes sure, to drive high current linear RF amplifier. Currents around 20 to 30 Amps at 12 to 13.8 Volts. |
| thedoc298:
Why not put mot in bucket of mineral oil. |
| davelectronic:
I had considered oil, but would rather go with air as a first option. I was hoping to attach 3 x heatsinks with 6 x 3mm screws. Only not sure if drilling the EI transformer frame might upset the transformer magnetic circuit. I'd use 2 x 3mm shallow holes on each of the three surfaces. |
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