Power supplies being damaged by ugly loads--solutions?

[IanB]

This chap here on another forum has a problem of power supplies failing in use:

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?339158-Variable-Regulated-DC-power-supply-type-and-protection-advice-sought

He is evidently using the supplies to power and test ballasts for HID lamps and similar things. Either due to poor experimental technique or exceeding the limits of the supply he is breaking his supplies.

What would be solutions here? Better test protocols? Different or better quality supply? External power supply protection?

[ModemHead]

That chap has arrived here with us: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/advice-on-purchaseing-a-30-40vdc-50-60-amp-variable-reg-supply/?topicseen

[Satchmoeddie]

Why not a 240 VAC Variac @ 10 amps and add a fast blow fuse to the thing if it doesn't have one already. DC power supplies for HID lighting?? I used a vairac with an ammeter and a hi pot testing those things for someone, not a DC supply. Yes, I wanted to shoot myself!  I was so bored!

[IanB]

That chap has arrived here with us: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/advice-on-purchaseing-a-30-40vdc-50-60-amp-variable-reg-supply/?topicseen

Indeed so. Please provide any answers here, if you would be so kind: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/advice-on-purchaseing-a-30-40vdc-50-60-amp-variable-reg-supply/

I'm going to lock this topic as surplus to requirements.