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Which Transformer Should Be Used?
A Tesla coil is usually made for commercial purposes using neon transformers. Some people build their own for experiments in the research field. Transformers from commercial manufacturers can be used to do this. There are a few options from using a microwave oven transformer for a smaller tesla coil, or a pole pig, which is a large transformer for the application of jobs requiring a lot of electrical output.
Oil Burner Ignition Transformers
Oil burner ignition transformers can be used while building a tesla coil. They are the devices on an oil burner that spark the air in fuel. It is a regulating transformer that is seen as a 5x4 inch metal box on oil burners, or smaller and not enclosed. They are removed carefully because of their high voltage and drained of oil before being reused in a tesla coil.
Microwave Oven Transformers
Microwave oven transformers are used to build smaller tesla coils. It is not an ideal transformer and is typically used as a cheap alternative to other transformers. It is extremely inefficient as well. The power generated is limited to 1 kW of pulsed 5 kV DC. It requires a metal shunt between the primary and secondary coils to prevent leakage, but this inevitably occurs.
Pole Pigs
Pole pigs are another term used for a utility company power distribution transformer. These transformers are responsible for bringing the power into houses and businesses. They step down the high distribution voltage to the 240 VAC people commonly use. They use between 7200 or 14400 volts and are a preferred choice when building tesla coils because they don't overload. They are also known to be quite dangerous and need a current limiting control before they can be used.