American clock, UK power

[wristpin]

I have a large (20") illuminated advertising clock from the USA so it's built for 110volts at 60hz . I guess that a 50hz to 60hz conversion will be difficult/expensive to achieve but I want to source a 230 to 110 volt transformer. Other than massive power tool trannys I have been unable to find one - have tried RS Components and Maplin . Any ideas?

 

[Wedg1e]

I imagine the bulk of the power used will be to light the lights? The clock mech itself (assuming it's running from a mains synchronous motor) will use piddling amounts. I guess if you could get at the motor you could see if a UK version is available, or else you could use the sort of variable frequency drive that equatorial telescope mounts use to keep the 'scope tracking or advance/retard it in relation to the stars. I built such a device for a mate maaaaaaany years ago, it was quite simple and would output 240V at 50Hz plus or minus quite a bit, 20 percent as I recall.

 

[rtbcomp]

Consider an auto transformer. Any transformer with a 220-110-0 primary will supply 110v between 0 & 110v if you supply it with 220v across 220 & 0.

You wouldn't need a big one for a clock.

What sort of lights does it have?

 

[MattF]

Do a search for auto transformer instead.

 

[Robotstar5]

Is 115V close enough? control panel transformers - link

 

[shenion]

You might look at replacing the movement with a battery operated one. The lights can be replaced with 230V bulbs or a different battast for fluorescent.

The clock will run 10min slow per hour at 50hz.

If you don't care about the time, you can use a step down transformer that has dual primaries for 120/240. Wire the two primaries in series for 240V and connect the clock mechanism across one of the primaries. The secondary is unued (but could be used if you want to put low-voltage lights in.)

 

[mike 109444]

Not 60Hz but small unit with the 110v and as has been said there are many circuits for 50 to 60Hz especially for the small load you require
http://www.maplin.co.uk/45w-uk-to-usa-voltage-convertor-19413