Re: Static gap design...

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

Original poster: "Jim Lux" <jimlux-at-earthlink-dot-net> 


----- Original Message -----
From: "Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>
To: <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>
Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2004 10:44 AM
Subject: Static gap design...


 > Original poster: "Hydrogen18" <hydrogen18-at-hydrogen18-dot-com>
 >
 > Whats the best design? I was experimenting with 1/4-20 bolts, a 6.8 pf
 > capacitor and a 7 turn air core coil in the typical tesla arrangement
 > powered by a 2500 VAC MOT. Even when cooled by 2 120mm fans turning at an
 > insanely high RPM it would glow red hot within seconds. What am I doing
 > wrong? Will a higher voltage help it run cooler? or do I just need more
 > airflow?

You need bigger electrodes to spread the spark and the heat... Try a couple
pieces of copper pipe in parallel as a gap. Copper is a much better thermal
conductor than steel. Either get a couple pieces sawed off, or get a couple
couplings.  Run the air flow from the fan along or across the gap, either
way.


 > Also, can I see the gap "quench" with my own eyes?

No, you can't see the quenching.

  I notice when I
 > add the capacitor and coil to the circuit it gets much brighter and VERY
 > loud, so I'm guessing it is doing its job. Any ideas or tips?
 >
 >
 >