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Old 06-10-2016, 10:26 PM
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benman94 benman94 is offline
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Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Detroit, MI
Posts: 1,190
I use Sola CVT Model Numbers 23-23-112, 23-23-125, and 23-23-150. They're 120, 250, and 500 volt-amp models respectively. The rating is fairly arbitrary; with decent ventilation a 500 volt-amp model will supply 600 volt-amps all day long.

There are four things I'd keep in mind when using a Sola:

1) They are most efficient when supplying a load near the maximum limit. Having multiple sizes around helps best match the load to the transformer.

2) The case and transformer core MUST BE GROUNDED. NEVER USE A SOLA THAT DOESN'T HAVE A 3 CONTACT PLUG. Never use a Sola plugged into an improperly wired socket.

3) Older Sola CVTs use capacitors that spew all sorts of know carcinogens and teratogens when they fail. They should be replaced as a matter of course. The value of the capacitor is critical.

4) They're rated in volt-amps, not watts. Power factor matters here. Luckily for us, the wattage rating of most vintage electronics is actually the apparent power draw, not real.
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