5.1.1
OBIT - Oil burner ignition transformers
Oil Burner Ignition Transformers (OBIT) are also useful as
Tesla coil power supplies. These transformers are used to ignite
the burners on old style oil burning furnaces.
They are magnetically shunted like neons so may be short circuited
without damage. They are not as rugged as neons not being designed
for continous duty operation. However they do serve well.
They are most commonly available in 10KV/23 ma and 6kv/23 ma
ratings. The 10kv units are what would most interest us.
You may find these at heating/airconditioning contractors.
Often you may find such places may have a couple old furnaces
ready to be scrapped. The transformers can be removed and
Sometimes be had for free.
Some places may have a couple old transformers on hand.
Most heating contractors dont place much value on these used
transformers so will usually give them away for the asking.
New units can be ordered but are expensive. Before buying a new
OBIT consider going to a neon transformer.