Re: [TCML] Climbing Arcs

[Sfxneon@xxxxxxx]

Hello Bert,
 
Appreciate all the suggestions! I really like the one about using a small  
capacitance across the secondary to add a little SNAP! I'll give it a try. 
 
Do you still have that xenon plasma tube that I traded to you for the  
shrunken coins? I still have the coins and they never fail to  amaze people!
 
Thanks,
 
Tony

In a message dated 5/27/2008 10:04:02 A.M. Central Daylight  Time, 
bert.hickman@xxxxxxxxxx writes:

Hi Tony,

Some suggestions:

1. Use a wide "V" to more  rapidly spread the arc. The higher the current 
the wider the end gap should  be
2. Use inductive ballasting for best performance
3. Use smooth rails to  avoid incandescent "hot spots" that will cause 
the arc roots to temporarily  hang in one spot. I'd recommend using 3/4" 
hard copper pipe or non-magnetic  stainless steel tubing. Periodically 
remove any oxide buildup. I suspect the  oxidation of the galvanizing may 
a major part of the problem you're  seeing.
4. Enclose on 4 sides to reduce disruption by air currents. Leave top  
AND bottom portion open to permit vertical air flow. Be sure to leave  
plenty of clearance on either side of the gap, especially for a higher  
current ladder.
5. For grins, try connecting a small (500 - 1000 pF) HV  doorknob cap 
across the gap to make for "snappier" performance at start and  at long 
arc lengths.

Good luck,

Bert
 



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