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Re: Measuring Spark Distances (fwd)
---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 3 Aug 1998 09:49:58 EDT
From: FutureT-at-aol-dot-com
To: tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: Re: Measuring Spark Distances (fwd)
In a message dated 98-08-03 03:28:33 EDT, you write:
<< snip
> Oh by the way, the longest spark that I have attained is 34" using
> 15KV-at-30ma / .005ufd / 4" D x 18 " / 22G wire
> 2 gap static gap / and that is using my method of measurement. I am
> trying to improve that distance without going
> to any RSG. I guess only fine tuning will get that distance
> increased...or maybe a large fly will fly between the
> toroid and strike rod to increase my strike distance :) <snip
> Looking forward to an interesting discussion.
> Regards
> Richard Staron, >>
Richard,
You might get a little better results using a multiple series static
gap using at least 5 or 6 gaps, along with some vacuum or forced
air, or perhaps you tried this and it didn't help? You may have seen
my recent posting in which I discussed my results with a 12kV, 30ma
system. In some prior work, I obtained 45" using a 15kV, 30ma
NST with a sync-gap. Generally, the static gaps give about 20%
shorter sparks than the sync-gap, (but this is true only in a system
that is optimized for the sync-gap). I was using a .007uF cap, but I
did some tests using .006uF, and got similar results, I don't
remember if I tried .005uF, I'll check my notes. You may be near
the limit of spark length for your coil with static gaps. Sometimes
if you raise the toroid about 1 or 2", you'll gain 1 or 2" more
output spark length. Adjusting the coupling (looser or tighter as
needed), may help, etc, fine tuning as you said. Generally, the static
gaps begin to fire erratically when they're adjusted too wide, and the
NST may carbon track internally. I use safety gaps to protect the
NST's.
To measure my spark length, I place a small alum. foil flat tab on
the toroid to ensure break-out at one point, and I let the sparks
stream out towards a vertical 1/8" dia grounded rod. If the spark
hits the rod about once per minute, I consider that the max spark
length of the system.
John Freau