Metal Finishing

Variable Transformers

Rapid Power Technologies variable transformer power supplies combine field-proven continuously variable controls with rugged and efficient power converters, offering unsurpassed flexibility, quality and value to the metal finisher. Designed to provide years of reliable service in the harshest environments, Rapid rectifiers incorporate over five decades of cutting edge innovations in design and manufacturing technologies.

Two models from which to choose

Rapid offers rugged, reliable, and affordable variable transformer power supplies in both manual and motor driven configurations, ensuring that there is a model to meet the needs of your particular application.

Manual

Rapid's manual variable transformer rectifier is a self-contained unit that provides continuously variable output control from zero to 100 percent of full rated voltage and/or current. Adjustment is made manually by simply rotating the control knob to achieve the desired output level. Three-phase units feature maximum 5% rms ripple over the entire output range. Single-phase units are available in either 48% rms or 5% rms configuration. All controls are mounted on the front of the rectifier enclosure.

Motor Driven

Rapid's motor driven variable transformer rectifier offers the same features and dependability as the manual version, but with the added advantage of remote control of the rectifier. The output of the variable transformer is adjusted by a rugged motor drive assembly. This design features a remote control NEMA type enclosure that can be placed at the plating tank, while the rectifier is situated in another location. The remote control unit includes an analog voltmeter and ammeter, Start/Stop buttons, power indicator, and DC output Up/Down buttons.

Protection

Each Rapid variable transformer rectifier is designed for maximum performance in demanding environments. Each rectifier comes standard with the following protection features:

All Units

  • Time delay fuses protect the unit in the unlikely event of a short circuit

Units above 1000A @ 6 Volts

  • Thermal sensors mounted on the diode heat sinks and in transformers shut off the rectifier if the temperature exceeds a factory preset limit
  • Fan overloads shut off the rectifier in the event of a cooling fan failure

Motor Driven Variable Transformers

  • Includes all of the above, plus diode fuses

Standard Features

Features included with every Rapid variable transformer rectifier:

  • All copper construction ensures highest efficiency (no aluminum used)
  • Transformers are manufactured from splice-free copper and grain-oriented silicon steel
  • Class H 220°C with a Class B 80° temperature rise transformer insulation ensures continuous operation in high temperature environments

Single-Phase Units

  • Lighted rocker type On/Off switch

Units up to and including 1000A @ 6 Volts (Three-Phase)

  • Rotary three-phase switch installed outside of the transformer primary to ensure complete isolation in the Off mode

Units above 1000A @ 6 Volts (Three-Phase)

  • Full line-current rated magnetic starting contactors installed outside of the transformer primary ensure safety and ease of maintenance

Enclosures

Enclosures up to 72" H are available in either powder-coated steel or PVC at no additional cost. Optional Type 316L stainless steel enclosures are available.

Optional Features

Optional features that customize the Rapid variable transformer rectifier to particular customer requirements include:

  • Digital ammeter
  • Digital voltmeter
  • Digital ampere-time meters
  • End of cycle timer
  • Polarity reversing switches
  • Liquid-filled motor driven
  • AVS/ACC/AC

General Specifications
Input Voltage:Up to 600 VAC, One or three-phase,
50 or 60 Hz (other voltages or frequencies available upon request)
Output Current: Up to 10,000 ADC (higher current ratings available upon request)
Output Voltage: Up to 48 VDC (higher voltage ratings available upon request)
Ripple: 5% rms ripple over the output range (three-phase units)
Cooling: Convection, forced air, direct water, and closed loop water systems
Magnetics: Low loss grain-oriented silicon steel cores, all copper conductors, 220°C rated insulation, design temperature rise < 80°C
Operation: Continuous at full rated voltage and current at up to 40°C ambient temperature