Re: OLTC Thoughts

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: "Wall Richard Wayne by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>" <rwall-at-ix-dot-netcom-dot-com>

Antonio,

> > Richard Hull's H2
> > thyratron magnifier, by necessity, quenched at the first zero crossing
of
> > the wave form.  So only the positive half of the energy cycle was
passed to
> > the primary.  While a very interesting design, it is not a spectacular
> > performer, if one measures performance by spark length.  It's a
phenomenal
> > research device though.  
> 
> This is quite strange. A Tesla coil, or a magnifier, can't operate
> correctly without at least two polarity reversals in the primary
> current.
> If the current is interrupted after the first half-cycle, only a small
> fraction of the primary energy is transferred to the secondary.
> Where is this magnifier described?

Yes, it does seem quite strange.  Even though with only one half cycle
there is still some energy transfer.  The coil does spark and has a
peculiar harsh audible hum.  But, overall performance is inhibited.  I
posted this point because Terry's OLTC will have similar very quick
quenching which may inhibit expected performance.  I have no doubt he will
figure out timing problems though.  A fly back diode on each switch will
get it through one complete cycle.

Richard Hull designed and built this thyratron maggey.  He has demonstrated
it at the TCBOR Teslathon.  I'm sure many on this list have seen this coil
in action.  Richard is no longer on this list, but I'm sure he would advise
you where it's written up.

RWW