Re: Zinc based spark gap

To: tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: Re: Zinc based spark gap
From: Doug Brunner <dabrunner-at-earthlink-dot-net> (by way of Terry Fritz <twf-at-verinet-dot-com>)
Date: Tue, 09 Mar 1999 11:09:37 -0700
Approved: twf-at-verinet-dot-com

I would strongly advise against using zinc. I'm not sure if zinc will
oxidize under the conditions of a sparkgap, but I suspect it will, and ZnO
can have a nasty effect on humans (severe respiratory distress, nausea, the
works).

Tesla List wrote:

> Original Poster: Bob Misiura <misiura-at-nccoast-dot-net>
>
> Joey??????
>
> Zinc works well for a spark gap material, providing the physical size
> and design are good, for the power you plan to run.  It probably isn't
> so effective that it would pay to go out of your way to locate a big
> chunk for the purpose.  I used a couple of 3/8" round pieces with good
> results at 350 watts.
>
> A good gap is more easily made from pieces of rigid copper pipe with
> drawn end caps sweated on.
>
> "hold up to the electric given shock?"  I assume you mean will it melt?
> Not if the piece is large enough to dissipate the heat at the power you
> run.
>
> "pre-ioniation?"  Huh?  It seems to quench fast, if that is what you are
> asking.  Works about as well as copper . . .
>
> The only materials that I've had trouble with, have been chromed steel,
> steel, iron, and stainless steel, and brass.  Copper and silver are my
> first choices.

--
           --Mr. Postman (Doug Brunner)
                <dabrunner-at-earthlink-dot-net>