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Old transformer covered with white powder substance? Anyone?

chadbang

chadbang

Well-Known Member
So I'm trying to bring an old Columbia Masterworks Suitcase portable back to life (the BSR changer works like a champ but the amp is out) and there a small transformer in there. I'm trying to read the schematic and I'm pretty sure it's designated "TR-15" ("15v transformer?"). It's just a little thing about two inches across. I'm wondering it it's dead, because it was coated with a white, powdery substance on all sides. Sort of a like a chalky coating on the transformer with had to be wiped off. Has anyone experience this substance on old transformers? Does this mean leakage of some sort. It was pretty evenly deposited on all sides, completely coating the transformer. Thanks for your help! This old timer was found absolutely mint condition. The needle was never even installed, so I think I deserves being brought back to life!

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It may be Cadmium. Not sure. I know it is a toxic substance. That, alone, will not indicate the ability of the transformer to function.
 
turnitdown said:
It may be Cadmium. Not sure. I know it is a toxic substance. That, alone, will not indicate the ability of the transformer to function.
Click to expand...

Cadmium usually has a yellowish tinge... a white power makes me think of aluminum or zinc oxidation. I deal with Transformers on a daily basis... There was an old practice of putting a talc/chalk like powder on a transformer that was insulated with a petroleum type askeral. The powder was to render the oil non-flammable. How about a picture of it?

Nice old time capsule!
 
You found my old record player! Cool!

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Maybe the thing got damp over time and that's just residue scale from the moisture ... pretty common on old tin especially, although that tends to be more of a solid coating than powder.
 
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biscuithead said:
Cadmium usually has a yellowish tinge... a white power makes me think of aluminum or zinc oxidation. I deal with Transformers on a daily basis... There was an old practice of putting a talc/chalk like powder on a transformer that was insulated with a petroleum type askeral. The powder was to render the oil non-flammable. How about a picture of it?

Nice old time capsule!
Click to expand...

I already cleaned it off. It was so evenly distributed, I think youre right and it might have been put there on purpose.
 
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