Re: top load smoothness (fwd)

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Thu, 5 Jul 2007 18:40:30 -0700 (PDT)
From: G Hunter <dogbrain_39560@xxxxxxxxx>
To: Tesla list <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: top load smoothness (fwd)

> In a message dated 7/5/2007 3:44:33 P.M. US Eastern
> Standard Time,  
> tesla@xxxxxxxxxx writes:
> 
> Hey  guys,
> Concerning the surface of top loads, does it make 
> any significant 
> difference in overall performance whether the
> surface is  very smooth or not 
> (ex. spun aluminum toroid vs. dryer duct toroid).  
> If one is going for 
> absolute maximum spark length (for his budget) would
>  it be worth his while 
> to cover his corrugated toroids with something like 
> wood putty or paper 
> mache and cover it with aluminum tape, or just leave
>  it alone.  Thanks.
> Scott Bogard.
> 

Another alternative is paper mache.  Obtain a vinyl
swim ring pool toy.  5" x 20" is a popular size for
small children.  9" x 38" is a common adult size. 
Inflate the swim toy as hard as possible using lung
power and cover it with several layers of paper mache.
 It looks all wrinkly when first covered, but if the
traditional recipe of newspaper, white glue, and water
is used, something cool happens.  As the paper dries,
it shinks, forming a smooth, tight skin.  Allow it to
dry completely, then toughen the shell with many coats
of polyurethane varnish.  The paper mache soaks up
lots of varnish--be prepared to use a whole can. 
After the varnish is fully dry, wrap the form in
aluminum duct tape and rub it down good with the back
of a large spoon.  With patient rubbing, the aluminum
tape covering will take on a burnished, chrome-like
appearance.  This kind of toroid looks much smoother
than anything made from corrugated ducting and it is
much cheaper than spun Al.  Takes lots of time
though--very tedious.

Cheers,

Greg



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