Transformers, input voltage range

transformer

I have a transformer based AC fan controller (rated for 230V input) with five output steps ( 230V(5) – 200V(4) – 160V(3) – 140V(2) – 125V(1) ). I would like to have more fine grained steps, and am thus thinking to connect two equal transformers in series, giving me a total of 25 different steps.

The second transformer would then get as input the output from the first transfomer (125V-230V). Is it likely that this would work (assuming there are no other components inside the controller which requires 240V)? In other words, does a transformer work well with any voltage below the rated voltage?

Best Answer

I'd have thought a variac might be a better solution, but yes, you can feed the output of one transformer into the input of another, and driving below its rated voltage is not going to be a problem.

You're not really connecting them 'in series', but I know what you mean.