I have had my big SGTC running for about 9 months now. Here are the salient specs:
* 8.6" x 39" secondary
* 9" x 30" top load
* 45 nF of primary circuit capacitance
* RSG with 4 rotating electrodes and 2 stationary electrodes, 3600 RPM, 240 breaks per second (4 per 60 Hz cycle at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees)
* Pole pig as power source
* 4800 watt wall power
* Maximum spark length is about 8 feet
I also built an electrical phase shifter, as others have, based on a variac and capacitors. I confirmed with my oscilloscope and an optical sensor that I can get about 0 to 90 degrees of phase shift by turning the variac knob. Before I added the phase shifter, I used an optical sensor and oscilloscope to accurately set the firing points at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees of each 60 Hz cycle.
My question concerns the apparent non-effect of the phase shifter on spark length. With the coil running, as I adjust the phase shift, I see no apparent change in the spark length. Does anyone have any thoughts as to why this would be? I am perfectly satisfied with the coil's performance, I just can't explain the apparent non-effect of the phase shifter.
Steve
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