Transformer assembly with exposed laminations and hollow housings

Abstract

A transformer assembly (10) for use as a self-contained auxiliary power supply in complex machine tool applications is disclosed as having a core (16) with a first side (18) and a second side (20). Attached to the first side (18) of the core (16) is a first hollow housing (30). A second hollow housing (34) is attached to the second side (20) of the core (16). The core (16) has lateral side edges (28) extending between the first and second sides (18, 20) thereof for effective removal and dissipation of heat generated by the transformer assembly (10). A plurality of electrical components (38) are mounted at least partially within one or more of the hollow housings (30, 34) to provide compact accommodation of the electrical components (38) by the transformer assembly (10) so that the latter occupies a minimal volume within a control panel in the complex machine tool. Accordingly, the assembly so described is significantly smaller and less costly than conventional auxiliary power supplies. In one embodiment of the invention, multiple sets of cores (16) are disposed adjacent to each other and have common hollow housings (30, 34) on the first and second sides (18, 20) respectively. This embodiment isolates the output of the respective transformer secondary windings. In another embodiment, two sets of cores (16, 16') are joined by a common hollow housing (34). Additional housings (30) are provided on the distal sides (18, 18') of the cores (16, 16'). This configuration is suitable for use in spaces that are long and narrow and has an enhanced ability to dissipate heat, even when mounted within confined enclosures.