8 guides
Know your machine.
Short, plain guides to choosing, sizing and looking after transformers and motors, written for the person who has to make the decision.
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Guides
01 · Transformers
Single or three-phase
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01Every guide
By topic.
Transformers · 3
- 01Single-phase or three-phase: which transformer do you need?What single-phase and three-phase supply actually are, how to tell which one you have, and why the answer decides the transformer before anything else does.2 min
- 03Dry-type or oil-type: choosing how a transformer is cooledHow dry-type and oil-type transformers get rid of heat, where each one fits best, and the practical points — space, fire risk, upkeep — that usually decide it.2 min
- 04Copper or aluminium windings: what actually changesBoth metals make good transformer windings. Here is what differs — conductivity, size, weight and cost — and what to ask when comparing the two.1 min
Motors · 2
- 05Seven signs your motor needs rewindingThe smells, sounds and trips that usually point to failing motor windings — and the faults that look similar but are something else entirely.2 min
- 06Rewind or replace: deciding what to do with a failed motorWhen rewinding a failed motor makes sense, when a new one is the better buy, and the questions that settle it — size, core condition, downtime and efficiency.2 min
Basics · 3
- 02How to work out the kVA rating you needA plain method for turning the equipment you run into a kVA figure: add up the load, allow for power factor and motor starting, then leave sensible headroom.2 min
- 07How to read a motor or transformer nameplateWhat the figures on a motor or transformer nameplate mean — rating, voltage, current, speed, phase, frequency — and which ones to send when asking for a quote.2 min
- 08Looking after transformers and motors through a hard winterWhat cold, damp and heavy heating loads do to transformers and motors in a hard winter, and the simple checks that keep them running until spring.2 min
Still not sure?
Tell us what you run and what went wrong. A kVA or HP figure and a nameplate photo is enough to start.