Re: tungsten carbide magnetic?

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Original poster: "Mike" <mike.marcum@xxxxxxxxxxxx>

I've heard thoriated rods are a bad choice for a gap, not just for 
radioactive reasons. The thorium is added to make the rods arc more 
consistently in a welder. If that's the case, won't these make for a TC gap 
that has poor quenching?

Mike
----- Original Message ----- From: "Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>
To: <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2005 7:27 PM
Subject: Re: tungsten carbide magnetic?


> Original poster: Lee Kohlman <lwkksw@xxxxxxxxx>
>
> I am designing a static spark gap using 1/8" tungsten welding rods (yes, 
> thoriated but to be used outside).  I have access to phenolic fiberglass 
> to support them.  I have a total of 10 rods that I would like to lay 
> parallel and still have some way to adjust gap length.  Of course I would 
> love to build a SRSG but that's too involved for now.  Any suggestions?
>
> Thanks,
> Lee K.
>
> Original poster: BunnyKiller
>
>
> but do you need that extra diameter? I am using 1/8" dia pure welding
> tungsten no thorium ( and you know what power Im dealing with ;) ...
> and have very little wear and erosion problems.. plus the minimal
> diameter makes it easier on disc design and dwell time...
>
>
> Scott D.