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A transformer changes the amperage and / or voltage. It literally "Transforms" electrical energy.

A ballast is like a capacitor. Think of a ballast as a short-term battery. It stores power then releases it as needed. A common example of a ballast is on fluorescent lights.

Initially, a fluorescent light needs a big blast of energy to excite the gas molecules into emitting photons (light). Then it only needs a small amount of energy to keep the gas molecules in an excited state. However, that power has to be of consistent amperage and voltage. The ballast is designed to do that.

The electrical ballast stores energy in the same way that a water ballast stores water for stability. Because the electrical ballast stores far more power than the device it regulates requires, it too provides a kind of electrical stability. That's why you often see a fluorescent light flicker or "lose stability" when the ballast starts to go bad.

A transformer transforms voltage and amperage up or down.

A ballast provides a stabile power supply.

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9y ago
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6mo ago

A ballast is a device used in lighting fixtures to regulate the electrical current flow to the bulbs to ensure they operate efficiently. A transformer is a device that changes the voltage of an electrical current, either stepping it up or down, to match the requirements of the devices it powers. While both devices play a role in electrical systems, they have distinct functions and purposes.

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Q: What the difference between ballast and transformer?
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What does the ballast do in a fluorescent light?

Electronic Ballast plays a important part in lights.We need a Ballast Tester to test the electronic ballast performance of a fluorescent light fixture. This is a basic process that can be accomplished quickly once you understand the operation of the high voltage transformer. The high voltage transformer is also encased in an oil bath that reduces the heat created by the action of the transformer. A low voltage, generally 120 VAC, is transformed into a high voltage, generally in thousands of volts. There must be a continuity between the wires of the high voltage side in order for the circuit to operate correctly. Heat can damaged the internal connections of the ballast. By using a volt ohmmeter the internal circuit can be quickly checked. Not only in the voltage, but also in the current and others factors. If you want to learn more details about electronic ballast and relevant instruments, see the related link.


What does the ballast do in a fluorescent light fixture?

The ballast in a fluorescent light fixture regulates the electrical current flowing through the light tube. It helps provide the initial surge of electricity needed to start the bulbs and then maintains a steady current to keep them lit.


How much does 1 cubic yard of railroad ballast weigh?

1 cubic yard of railroad ballast typically weighs between 2,000 to 2,700 pounds.


What is the difference between a ballast and anchor?

A ballast is a weight used to stabilize a ship or other structure, helping it maintain balance and stability. An anchor, on the other hand, is a device that is dropped to the sea bottom to prevent a ship from drifting away, providing a temporary hold or mooring. Essentially, a ballast keeps a vessel stable, while an anchor keeps it in place.


Step down transformer of a specs of 110 primary to 24 v 12va CAn you used a 110v primary to 24v 20 va What is the difference between them?

Yes, you can use a transformer with a 110V primary to 24V and 20VA. The primary voltage being the same is compatible. The main difference between the two transformers is the power handling capacity, where the 20VA transformer can handle more power compared to the 12VA transformer.

Related questions

Can you turn a multi-tap ballast into a step down transformer?

A mulit tap ballast is in fact an auto transformer.


What is the difference between a balanced transformer and an unbalanced transformer?

there is nothing like a balanced and unbalanced transformer.


What difference's between potential transformer and voltage transformer?

Both are same. This is an instrument transformer used for metering & protections.


What is the difference between a 1.5KVA and a 3KVA transformer?

The 3 kVA transformer will weigh double the 1.5 kVA transformer.


What is the difference between isolation transformer and ferromagnetic transformer?

An isolation transformer is usually a ferromagnetic transformer. The question needs to be framed more usefully.


Difference between potential transformer and current trasnformer?

The difference between current transformer and potential transformer is that the secondary of a current transformer can not be open circuited while under service whereas that of the potential transformer an be open circuited without any damage to the transformer.


What is difference between interposing voltage transformer and potential transformer?

potential transformer is to maser and protection purpose the ivt is used for synchronicing purpose


What is the difference between variable transformer and ordinary transformer?

Variable transformer may also refer as auto transformer. We can vary the output voltage of the transformer. But in the ordinary transformers output voltage is already designed.


What is the difference between isolation transformer and Automatic Voltage Regulator?

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Does a fluorescent ballast use power when no bulbs are in the fixture?

Yes, there is an excitation current that flows through the primary side of the transformer which is located in the magnetic ballast's casing.


What is the difference between power transformer and instrument transformer?

A power transformer is used to provide power (to your home, for example), an instrument transformer is used to measure voltage or current (for metering, for example).


What is the difference between control transformer and Potential transformer?

Control transformer used only for control supply 110,220, 24,12V AC. But Potential transformer used voltage measurement purpose.