I have an old Miller 330A/BP. It has a component in it called the
Magnetic Amplifier, which appears to be a copper wound transformer
with two stacks of coils. It is separate from the main transformer.
It is fed by the main transformer and also the amperage adjustment
controls. What is the function of the magnetic amplifier in this
welder? What is being amplified? Thanks in advance, John.
A magnetic amplifier or MagAmp is not so much a means of amplifying as it is
a means of controlling AC power. These devices were used extensively in
welders before high power SCRs became available. They consist of two or
three coils wound around an iron core. The main coil caries the AC power
that is to be controlled while another coil of finer wire carries DC control
current. A third coil is often used to carry bias current for calibration.
When AC current is passed through the main coil it induces a fluctuating
magnetic field in the iron core that resists or impedes the flow of the AC
current through inductive reactance. The welder's output is significantly
restricted.
If DC current is passed through the control coil at the same time the AC
current is flowing in the main coil, The DC control current will begin to
build-up a magnetic field of its own. This DC induced magnetic field will
use up some of the magnetic capacity of the iron, leaving less magnetic
capacity to oppose the flow of AC current. The output of the welder is
increased.
The DC control current can be increased to the point where the iron is
saturated, leaving virtually no magnetic capacity to oppose the AC current
flow. This would result in maximum output of the welder, or maximum output
within the range the welder is set for.
This is my best recollection of the function of a MagAmp. There are many
very smart folks here, so please feel free to offer any corrections or
additions.
Bob
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