Transformer won't work for US plug

Question

I live in the UK but have a few US appliances in my possession which I would like to use here in the UK. To avoid having to rewire all the plugs, I bought a transformer to step down the voltage from 230V to 110V. The outlet is set to receive a European plug, so I bought a Schuko adapter to accept US configured plugs. However, when I plugged it into the transformer, it did not work.
The transformer, I believe, is fine. I will check my appliances further, but I can't decide if the fault is with the adapter, which I only just bought. Does anyone have any thoughts? The transformer can receive a 3 prong plug, but as far as I know, European plugs only have 2 prongs.
The transformer nameplate

Transformer specs

Transformer receptacle

Adapter interface

ThreePhaseEel · Accepted Answer

Wrong adapter
Your problem is basically entirely that you have the wrong adapter.  Your transformer is a UK worksite transformer that outputs two 55V legs with an inaccessible center-tap for the grounded neutral, and thus uses IEC 60309 pin and sleeve (also known as "CEEform" or "Commando" in the UK) type connectors as they are rugged and weather-resistant.  These are not intended to mate with the Schuko plug on your current adapter, though, so you'll need to get or fabricate (using a short length of appropriate cordage as a go-between) an adapter from the appropriate pin-and-sleeve plug to a NEMA 5-15 cord cap and use that instead.

Simon B · Answer

The socket on the transformer is a "CEEform" or "Commando" socket (they are two names for the same thing).  It's a widely used international standard, but is completely incompatible with the standard German or French plugs.
You would need to buy or make an appropriate adaptor to fit your US plugs.  Or take off the US plugs and fit CEEform ones instead.
Note that yellow plugs/sockets are specifically intended for 110V.  Other colour plugs will not fit, even if they are the same size.

Transformer won't work for US plug

2 Answers

Wrong adapter

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