Running items on different mains voltages and frequencies is quite
common. I have some equipment from the USA which I regularly use - it
is just too expensive to buy the product for our local voltages
especially if I can get it surplus on eBay. I have a few
transformers with standard USA type outlets that I just plug items
into - no modifications made to the appliances at all. There are
some items that will work well, some won’t.
The easiest items are those with selector switches or internal
allowance for differing voltages. If you do have an item with a
switch on it for voltage selection, remember to alter it - it will
often be destroyed otherwise. Some items with internal transformers
use two windings for the mains voltage - they are wired in series for
220/240V and parallel for 110V. A technician would soon know if they
are wired like that and easily convert them. Its worth emailing or
writing to the manufacturers or distributors first to ask them as
well.
I came across a well done article about using USA items in Australia
a few weeks ago. It all applies to using items in other countries as
well, just check what voltage and frequency the country uses at some
of the other links listed a little further down:
http://www.pigtailproductions.com/stacey/aus-us-power.html
The US mains frequency is 60 Hz, much of the rest of the world uses
50 Hz . I’ve seen a few comments that the European Union is trying to
create a standardised 230V 50Hz mains so even a few 60Hz countries
may change in the future. The different frequency upsets items that
rely on the mains for timing (a lot of clocks) and timers or clocks
etc using synchronous motors will also run slow. Some other types of
motors will be affected to some degree but normally not seriously.
Universal motor items like your foredom with a motor brushes, won’t
mind the different frequency.
Sometimes transformers that are running at the high end of their
ratings will get hotter as US makers may use less iron in the core.
The lower frequency means the transformer is working less efficiently
so it needs more iron to work properly. It mainly worries
transformers that are working towards their full capacity.
Small chart of World Wide mains Voltages and Frequencies
Large chart of World Wide mains Voltages and Frequencies and Power
Plugs http://www.globtek.com/world%20mains%20voltages.html
Items that draw a lot of current like kilns may be a bit of a
problem. High current - big - transformers are expensive. I’ve
worked on some imported equipment and often it was set up in such
away as to allow conversion. If there are pairs of similar rated
elements, they can be put in series strings (making them only receive
half of the applied voltage) and converted to higher voltage mains
that way. The control circuits: timers, pyrometers etc may be able
to run off 240 volt (some are multivoltage) but otherwise a small
transformer may be fitted inside the case just for the electronics.
The output relays will have to be checked to ensure that they are
rated for 240V to run the elements, otherwise the relays will need
replacing or a set of intermediate relays fitted i.e. the original
equipment relays run the higher rated relays that run the elements.
The latter may be cheaper and is far easier if relays are part of
circuit boards in equipment. If the elements are able to be paired,
it really isn’t a hard job for conversion. You might find it harder
to find someone to do it though. Some imported microwave ovens even
use 110 volt lamps in series when sold in 220 / 240 volt countries.
Transformers for stepping the voltage down come in two varieties: a
dual winding style and a autotransformer style. At least in
Australia, they are often metal cased. The best type are variously
named “dual winding”, “double wound” or “isolating” transformer
style. They have a separate winding for the input voltage and the
output voltage.
The autotransformer style are cheaper to make. They use a single
winding and tap the voltage off part way along it. Part of the
single winding therefore shares all of the current. The major
disadvantage is that if the winding should fail in the common
section, the output will then be directly connected to the mains
input. As the output is a lower voltage then the result is
obvious… FLASH, BANG, Goodbye appliance, possible fire and shock
hazard!! If you do use an autotransformer type adapter NEVER
overload it.
Some transformers have a few input or output taps to allow you to
adjust the voltage slightly up or down. If you have a choice, get
one that does. It allows you to reduce the output slightly to allow
for the slightly higher mains if necessary. This can help life
expectancy of equipment.
Some transformers aren’t fitted with output circuit breakers or
fuses. I strongly recommend that you buy transformers that are
fitted with protection on the output or have them fitted.
Another thing to remember if you are taking items overseas and using
an adapter is that plugs and sockets to repair your items may not be
readily available in your new country. If you wish to fit a new plug
or fit an outlet on a new transformer in your new country, it may be
difficult or very expensive. I have seen catalogs in Australia
giving the cost of a USA type power lead at over $50. It makes it
worth it to take a few spares.
I hope this helps you in your decision making. Of course, it’s also
worth doing a little research on the net to see what “replacement”
items will cost if you do decide to buy new items. You may decide to
“temporarily” use some items and replace them as the need arises.
Service may not be easy to get for 110V equipment and many parts are
different.
Regards,
Brian.