Re: PFC cap appropriate?

To: tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: Re: PFC cap appropriate?
From: "Adam" <adamsmith-at-mediaone-dot-net> (by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-uswest-dot-net>)
Date: Fri, 10 Mar 2000 21:41:16 -0700
Approved: twftesla-at-uswest-dot-net
Delivered-To: fixup-tesla-at-pupman-dot-com-at-fixme

> Original Poster: "Paul Mathus" <pmathus-at-learningco-dot-com>
> 
> Hey folks,
> 
> I just picked a cap for $12 at a surplus place, and was hoping to use
> it for power factor correction on my 12/60 NST.
> 
> I've transcribed the label below:
> 
> AEROVOX ENERGY DISCHARGE CAPACITOR
> Type: PX8E10
> 100 MFD 600 VDC
> Does not contain PCBs

The "VDC" rating is a clue that this is not intended for continuous AC use.
A good polypropylene or mylar AC cap will be rated in VAC, often a multiple
of 220.  Most commonly, coilers use motor RUN or lighting caps, both of
which are usually flat-oval, drawn metal cans filled with oil and topped
with 1/4" quick-connect tabs.  You can clearly hear/feel the oil sloshing
when you shake this type of cap.

-Adam 
adamsmith-at-mediaone-dot-net