Electrical – Wiring Transformers in Series With a 240V Plug From a Generator

seriestransformer

How should I wire 2 transformers in series (either primaries or secondaries)(not sure which I should use) using a NEMA L14-30 plug from a generator socket? I'm using 2 Microwave Oven Transformers to make a homemade stick welder. I was thinking about using a shared neutral for both.

Questions:

1)Is this a good configuration? (Generator/Shared Neutral)

2)If it is, should I wire the primaries or secondaries in series, and what advantages (or much more likely disadvantages) will be involved in either choice?

3) Can you show/describe the best (or at least a recommended) approach for doing this off of this type of plug?

Best Answer

if they're 120v transformers (and seeing as you've got a NEMA connecter there they probably are) connect them in series,

and connect the neutral to equalise the voltage if there's a mis-match between the two transformers, also wire the secondaries in series. secondaries in parallel could cause circulating currents if the transformer ratios don't match.