Electronic – 1:1 isolation transformer fuse on secondary side – an option

fusesisolationtransformer

We sometimes use an old self build 1:1 isolation transformer (150VA) in our company to isolate devices under test.
It is equipped with a primary 500mA fuse (slow) in series with a on/off switch. However, due to inrush currents when the transformer is first energized, the fuse tends to blow from time to time. I am aware that the inrush current can already be pretty large for a transformer of that size.

I would also like to use an even smaller fuse, since 500mA is still pretty much from a shock perspective and most DUTs require far less current.

Would it be an option to just move the fuse to the secondary side of the transformer or would you advise against it for safety reasons? If a secondary fuse is fine, would you advise leaving the switch on the primary side?

Best Answer

If you move the fuse from the primary side you have no protection in case the insulation of the primary coil of the transformer fails.

Maybe the best solution is to have a fuse on each side: e.g. 2.5 A on primary and 250mA on secondary.

BTW a fuse is not enough to protect against electrical shock. Something lika a RCCB (inserted on the secodary side) is needed for an effective protection.