I'm currently working on a proof-of-concept project for my master's degree that involves generating about 1-3 amps of 3-phase 12Vac to create an interactive scale model of the power grid. While I've successfully retrofitted an alternator for this purpose, I'm looking to build smaller, purpose-built 3-phase transformers that are around railroad model size. One major challenge I'm facing is the difficulty in sourcing electrical steel, like silicon steel, for the laminations of the transformer and generator cores at consumer laser-cutting services like Oshcut or SendCutSend. Does anyone know of a service that can provide these materials at a reasonable price, or suggest an alternative metal that would have acceptable permeability? I've heard carbon steel is the next best option, but I'm not sure.
3 Answers
Just to clarify, can you actually create a 3-phase system using just a transformer? I'm curious how that works, as I’m not sure if that's accurate.
Have you thought about ordering silicon steel and sending it to a laser or water cutting shop? That could be a solution if they allow for it. Might be worth checking out!
When it comes to DIY motors or transformers, electrical steel is indeed the best choice because of its high permeability and low core losses. Unfortunately, sourcing it in small, laser-cut sizes is tricky. Most consumer services, like Oshcut or SendCutSend, don't typically stock it due to its specialized cutting requirements. If you're looking for alternatives, carbon steel, specifically grades like 1018 or 1008, could work, though it has higher eddy current losses. If you go that route, make sure to laminate it thin (under 0.5mm) to manage those losses. For silicon steel laminations, check out companies like Metglas or Proto Laminations, or consider local motor shops that might sell scrap or even cut-to-size EI cores. Reusing laminations from old transformers is another solid approach for your prototypes.
Spectacular, thank you!
I don't know. Can I?