2x18VAC instead of 18-0-18

[Hubba]

Hello,

I have difficulty to source a 18-0-18 500VA transformer for a dual polarity PSU. Could someone confirm that I can use a 2x18VAC 500VA and connect the secondaries in series, and thus creating a center tap where the two secondaries are joined...

kind of like: 2x18 VAC ---> 18-0-18

Thank you,
Fredrik

 

[infinia]

yes you could do that , but better ripple performance to build a dual full wave rectified / filtered supply and join them at the outputs. You will have less one extra diode drop for each side.

 

[sofaspud]

You can use a dual secondary tranny as a center tap. Just make sure you connect them in phase.
Is a 36VCT that difficult to find?

 

[Hubba]

Thanks for the replies...

I'll start with the 2x18 and test the circuit, and put the 18-0-18 on the list of future updates.

Regards,
F

 

[nigelwright7557]

If the transformer has say two red and two white wires on the secondaries then connect a red to a white for a center tap.

 

[dsp77]

I've just posted a similar question in the parts forum.

When a 2x 18v is wired in series for centre tapped output like above, is the output 36v?

 

[AndrewT]

use a mains bulb tester for every power up !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!