PHC Enterprises SC-10T Variac Isolated transformer repair and isolation test

I was in the market for an isolation transformer as well as a variac when I stumbled across this SC-10T from an eBay seller. This variac is an isolated version that PHC Enterprises sells.
www.phcenterpri...
They sell unisolated versions that can be found in most markets but, this isolated version is harder to find.
After it arrived and during the unboxing, I discovered it was damaged so, instead of returning it, I opted to fix it. In doing so I contacted PHC Enterprises to get a replacement set of brushes and they immediately sent the replacements, I can't say enough about PHC Enterprises' customer service... they are top-notch.
In this video, I disassemble and replace the brushes/wipers and perform test on the TRUE Isolation of this device.

[@carlubambi5541]

Same issues I had .Shippers don't give a shit they dropped the package like crazy

[@dane1234abc1]

Is the fuse a U.S. sized 3AG or a metric 5x20 mm fuse?

[@dane1234abc1]

Did you have to cut the OEM outlet to remove it?

[@joea3728]

If your case is not grounded, you have a potential shock hazard. If your case is grounded; more than likely your receptacle is grounded through the mounting screw. Replace your ground wire. Get yourself a GFCI. Mount it in a separate plastic box, connect the ground of the GFCI, Through a switch to the neutral side of the isolated output. This will give you a true isolated ground, and the benefits of a GFCI. It will also give you the option to test medical devices that require a true earth ground.

[@thxepsilon8292]

I have read several posts that state that a GFCI is not supposed to work with this device...

[@joea3728]

you must understand how a GFCI works. There is a small transformer inside. The hot wire induces a magnetic field in the transformer, the common wired suppresses this magnetic field. I.e. both wires have the same current going through them. any current going to ground will allow the GFCI to trigger.
Note:According to US code, The common Wire and ground Wire is terminated at the same point in this circuit breaker box. the electrical potential for each is the same.
if you connect the ground to the common of the GFCI It is essentially doing the same thing.
Note: in commercial or residential household wiring, it is not appropriate nor is it legal to do this.
But in this case, Since it is a plug-in device, test equipment, isolation transformer, it is appropriate and legal. It will add An extra layer of protection for you and your device under test.

[@TheElectriciansToolChannel]

Great video, I would like to see you change the analog volt meter on the variac to a digital version. I just subscribed to your channel. I’m looking forward to video sir, thanks 💪👍🏿🤔

[@lmt200ish]

Definitely want to see the digital meter install.

[@dyvydross]

Thanks for the into on this isolated variac! I just purchased one from PHC, the same model, and the grounding configuration is different. Firstly the variac power cord has a two-pronged plug with no ground wire. Secondly, the outlet plugs on the isolated side of the variac are grounded to the chassis of the variac. I am planning to plug only old two-prong-plug tube radios in the isolated side of the variac, so I suppose no problem there? Any scenarios this would be bad?

[@thxepsilon8292]

Great work inside that instrument! Very instructive, thank you. I have also noticed that the plugs provide a poor connection, will look into replacing it as you did (soldering is surely involved).
It felt good when you explained that a company in China answered your email in a few minutes and send out a replacement part even though the fault lies with the shipper, as well as documentation. We just have to remember to send out our emails during business hours in China (after midnight in my case).

[@westbay5858]

Is there a link to buy this isolated transformer? All the ones I can find are are isolated. Thanks.

[@n8ibz1]

Not tech isolated but looks easy to do with removal of the earth to the outlet