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sync vs. static gap, was 12kV, 30ma TC specs, 42" spark
From: FutureT-at-aol-dot-com[SMTP:FutureT-at-aol-dot-com]
Sent: Monday, September 22, 1997 4:31 AM
To: tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: Re: sync vs. static gap, was 12kV, 30ma TC specs, 42" spark
In a message dated 97-09-18 03:20:21 EDT, you write:
<< All,
> A few list members asked if a static gap could match the
> performance of a synchonous rotary gap on a neon powered
> Tesla coil using resonant charging for maximum spark output.
>>snip>
I'm responding to my own post here:
I now think that it is not a good idea to even experiment with
the above comparison. The wide static gaps are just too
destructive and treacherous for the neons. My 42" spark results
were fully based on sync-gap use...I would only recommend using
sync-gaps in this application.
Many would say that the neons will not survive even using the
sync-gaps, but I say the proof is in the pudding, and it's too soon
to say. I encourage experimentation with neons and sync-gaps, I
think many will be pleasantly surprised by their results.
Some feel that rotaries are beyond their mechanical abilities to
constuct, but truly, they're not that difficult. Still, the danger is
always there from explosion of the spinning parts. Happily, the
two common sync-speeds; 1800 and 3600 rpm, are low enough
to make balancing less of a concern than in many high speed
non-sync gaps which are frequently run up to 5000 or 6000 rpm.
A small diameter rotor helps to reduce the danger. A guard around
the rotor is a must. The archives contain a wealth of info on rotary
gap safety. Have a machinist do the work if you're not confident, or
sufficiently skilled.
Safe and effective coiling to ya,
John Freau