Transformer Buzz M601 CLS

[Richard Jepsen]

A new to me Durst M601 has transformer buzz. I've used different timers with no affect. I do have a slightly under sized lamp installed. Anyone know of a fix?

 

[paul_c5x4]

Live with it - There is a fix, but it involves removing the transformer, soaking it in varnish, and then baking in an oven (a task best left to a specialist that deals in reconditioning electrical motors & industrial transformers).

 

[Arvee]

Transformers are made up of many metal laminations held together with bolts/screws. Over time these four bolts can become loose and vibrate. Open the case and tighten the four bolts snugly on the corners of the transformer. Also, the transformer generates a large magnetic field and can cause the metal enclosure to vibrate at a 60 Hz rate. Tighten all fastenings on the enclosure as well. Using your hands/fingers to hold/squeeze/apply pressure to the enclosure may dampen the vibration and will tell you if it is the enclosure that is buzzing.

Disconnect power before opening the case to tighten the transformer bolts!

If tightening the bolts doesn't solve the problem, then it is likely there is a problem with the stabilization circuitry. Note: a small amount of slightly audible hum is normal with most transformer powered devices.

 

[johnielvis]

are you sure it's the transformer?

maybe you got one of those lenses that "buzzes"--you can try stopping down and see if it sharpens up...

 

[samcomet]

as other posters have said there is an inherent buzz in the trannie due to the line frequency of your supply. Usually it is not noticeable when new and all the winding coatings (varnish) are fresh and screws are tight. If it annoys you I have found a workaround by putting my trannie on some high density foam rubber to minimise the resonance of the wooden shelf that it sits on (like a sound board of a musical instrument). Or you could play loud music in the darkroom...... cheers!

 

[Richard Jepsen]

I took the case off. There was nothing that needed tightening. I got the cover back on, tightened the screws and the buzz reduced to a minor hum. Thanks for the advice.