wow, away for weekend - didn't expect so many replies...
where to start... yes, used a T5 meter to measure AC output from PP... PP setups are identical apart from component ratings (also rewired larger pp equipment to feed smaller pp transformer to confirm that the transformer is the...
yes - fluke meter measured 25a @ 8.5-9v with large pp attached to element (and pot turned up slowly until 25a showed on pp ammeter) - glowing dull red, nice heat. fluke measurements taken about 1 minute after switch on.
with same fluke meter measured 31a @ 12v with smaller pp attached to...
ok, transformer is AC 240v primary 12v secondary... i measured voltage across the element with an ordinary fluke meter set to V (does both AC/DC) and measured amps with the same meter at the point on the cable just before it connects to the element (meter has notch in the end to measure amps)...
unfortunately i am not sure of the material - i 'think' it is a nichrome strip...
will read up on saturation of transformers - that is a possibility - is there any method of determining this? would a saturated transformer give steady volt/amp readings? will try ramping up voltage more slowly...
This one has me puzzled... using a variable power pack to heat an element - the powerpack is way overrated for the element (120A @ 12V secondary of transformer) so decided to build a smaller version.
To get the element to about the right heat (glowing red) i set the large PP to about 25A and...