Choosing a Variacs

Variacs Home

Variac Transformer
Variac transformers are available in single and three phase and their distortion free output is ideal for sensitive electronic applications.

Types of Variacs
Click here to find out the different types of Variacs and what applications they are used for.
 

Applications for Variacs
Variacs transformers are used for many different applications but are ideal for electronic applications that are sensitive to distortion.

Choosing a Variacs
What information do you need to know before choosing a Variacs?  Let us help in choosing the right Variacs for your applications.

Variac Variable
Variac Transformers are sometime called Variable Transformers because they are AC voltage controls that provide a variable AC Voltage.

Amp Variac
Variacs range in size from 120V to 600VAC single and three phase and fractional to 700 Amps.

Choosing a Variacs

Before choosing a Variacs make sure you have the basic understanding of what  Variacs are and how they work and for what applications.  Any of our topics to the right or left of this page will help you get a clearer picture of their applications and designs.

When choosing a Variacs most companies grouped them in line frequency, phase, input voltage and output voltage and a brief specifications of each model.  Also each unit have load rating that is usually in amperes or kVA.  Choosing a Variacs you will need to know the line frequency and load characteristics for your applications.  Once you have these two factors any first-rate manufacturer or distributor can help you in selecting the right Variacs for your applications.

Choosing A Variacs - Line Frequency

Most Variac models are designated for 50 to 60 Hz but also can be designed for operations from 480 up to 1200 Hz

Choosing A Variacs - Phase

Variacs are available in both single and three phase operations. Single Phase are normally either 120 volt or 240 volt.  Line voltage up to 17% above the nominal can be applied if overvoltage output is not required.  An example of this is, a 140 volts line voltage can be applied to a 120 volt models if the maximum output voltage required is no more than the line voltage applied.  For single-phase voltage from 480 to 560 volts, two Variac transformers rated for 240V operation could be used with their coils connected in series across the line and the load connected one side to each of the Variac outputs.  For information on three phase rating and how to calculate check out our 3 phase Variac.

Choosing A Variacs - Load Rating

Load rating is specified in three ways:

• Maximum current
• Rated current in amperes
• Power in kVA

All three of these are closely related,  but they are different and the differences are important in the choosing of your Variac.

A Variac cannot supply as much current at midrange settings as it can at full-voltage setting without overheating.  In the case of nonlinear loads, such as incandescent lights, it may draw nearly as much current at half voltage as they do at rated voltage, while other linear loads will draw current proportional to the applied voltage.  If a load is nonlinear, a Variac should be chosen that has a rated current adequate for the load.  Otherwise, the larger maximum current is the load-rating limit.

The Variac rating in kVA is given as a convenience in matching the right Variac to the load.  KVA is the rated line voltage and the maximum current rating of the Variac.  The kVA rating can be used only if the load is linear and the overvoltage connection is not used.  Otherwise, load current must be used to determined a Variac that has adequate rating.

We have just provide the basics, so for more information call TEMCo in helping you choose the right Variacs for your applications.  TEMCo with its highly trained professionals, prides themselves in treating their customer honestly and fairly while still providing the lowest prices and the highest quality of products.  Most products can be shipped within 24 hours and all products come with the best warranties in the industry.  Call TEMCo today and let them help you with all your power source needs.

CALL TEMCo for all your transformers needs!!
1-510-490-2187 or 1-800-613-2290

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Choosing a Variacs

How  Variacs are Construction
Variacs use a toroidal core, wound with one continuous strip of suitable steel.
 

3 phase Variac
Resources on 3 phase and how a  3 phase Variac works.

Variac Voltage
Variacs are typically used to step up voltage 15 percent or more. Variacs are the most versatile and reliable voltage controls available.  

Finding a Variac Manufacturer
Provides guidelines on choosing a  Variac manufacturer and what to look for when purchasing a Variac Transformer

TEMCo's team of experienced Variac specialists are standing by to assist you!

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