Re: El Cheapo Vacuum Pumps

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Original poster: "Steve Ward" <steve.ward@xxxxxxxxx>

Id be interested if i had some method of powering the pump (no air
compressor here).  28.3" of vacuum sounds pretty good for plasma
experiments.  The best i could ever do with my pump pulled from a
de-humidifier was about 25-26", and that was enough to begin seeing
some decent plasma effects when using about 20kV from an AC flyback
transformer.  The difference between 24" and 25" of vacuum was pretty
noticable, so id imagine 28" would be that much better.

Steve

On 8/4/06, Tesla list <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> Original poster: Mddeming@xxxxxxx
>
> Hi All,
>
> Anyone wanting an inexpensive first stage vacuum pump that can get
> down to 30-40 mmHg might want to consider this item from Harbor Freight Tools:
> Item No. 92475
> Central Pneumatic
> Air Vacuum Pump with R134A Connector
>
> Regular Price $16.99
> Sale Price $11.99
>
> Their on-line catalogue is at:
> <http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/common/start.do>http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/common/start.do
>
> Since Tesla described a number of his experiments with partial vacuum
> as being in the 50-150 mmHg range, this should put most experimenters
> in the ballpark.
>
> Peace,
>
> Matt D.
>
> Disclaimer:
> I have no financial or personal interest in Harbor Freight Tools, Its
> suppliers or any associated companies, and this is not a compensated
> endorsement.
>
> MDD