Par 36 pinspots with 4515 6v.30 watt bulbs - Transformers failing

[Mariano Longo]

Par 36 pinspots with 4515 6v.30 watt bulbs - Transformers are failing. Bought new bulbs and cross checked with working fixtures . It is definitely the small transformers in each fixture. Is there an alternative to this small pin-spot with relatively low wattage?

 

[adam2]

No affordable mains voltage lamp will produce the narrow beam desired.

Extra low voltage lamps have a much smaller filament, the output of which is readily focussed to a very narrow beam.

Why are the transformers failing ? They are normally long lasting. Make certain that are rated for 240 volt mains, not 220 volt. Despite harmonisation on 230 volts, UK mains is still about 240 volts most of the time in most places.

Are they rated at 30 watts/5 amps and not at some lower figure. 25 watt transformers feeding 30 watt lamps will have a reduced life.

Are the transformers exposed to excessive heat ? That will shorten the life.

Are the transformers of reputable make ? Imports may be ratted in chinese watts !

[sandall]

1 hour ago, adam2 said:

Make certain that are rated for 240 volt mains, not 220 volt.

OP is in Ohio🙂

[sunray]

Shame I scrapped loads a few years ago.

[Chris at EAV]

Are you running them on hot power or via a dimmer, dimmer AC outputs must be fully symetrical for loads with a transformer input, if the output swing on the pos and neg half cycles doesn't match perfectly the difference (seen as a DC) heats up the transformers until they cook, was always a problem with dimmers that used single triacs rather than thryristor pairs.