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Registered Member #190
Joined: Fri Feb 17 2006, 12:00AM
Location:
Posts: 1567
I would like to submit a simple poll asking members how they control input power to their HV devices. I am curious if you use a variac, smps, or other device. Please state what the method, what you use it for (tesla, heater, crusher) and how much voltage/amperage you deliver with the method. Thanks.
Registered Member #1403
Joined: Tue Mar 18 2008, 06:05PM
Location: Denmark, Odense C
Posts: 1968
I use a 12A 230VAC Variac to all my coils, large as small, it was fitted with a 10A fuse that my DRSSTC took out after running at 2500W for 5 minutes.
I also have 10A single phase variac, 6A three phased variac and 25A three phased variac at my disposal.
I have been lookinf for smaller 1-4A variacs that are more handy, but variac are sturdy, will take a beating for short periods and I never had one fail on me :)
Registered Member #30
Joined: Fri Feb 03 2006, 10:52AM
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Posts: 6706
I use a variac that goes to 11, for that extra push over the cliff.
Seriously, I have two variacs, a 2A and a 10A, plus a couple of 1:1 isolating transformers, some plate transformers from tube equipment, a small NST, a large NST, a MOT, a 4x voltage multiplier for use with the MOT to provide 10kV DC @ 0.1A, and two 1kW SMPS, one 0-150V and one 0-600V.
At work I have access to the HV lab with various Brandenburg SMPS up to 100kV DC, a 110kV Marx generator, and a 100kV, 10kVA test transformer with computer control (ironically, through a motor-driven variac) and datalogging. This is all quite modest by HV lab standards, but it's still fun
My last few SSTCs all use phase angle control with SCRs. It allows crude voltage control for low-power tests, but most importantly, a soft start to charge the big cap bank without blowing fuses and breakers.
I used the variac for prototyping, and installed the SCR unit once I was happy with the rest of the electronics. I have built them up to 30A @ 240V AC input, using a 90A SCR brick as a doubler.
Registered Member #1565
Joined: Wed Jun 25 2008, 09:08PM
Location: Norway
Posts: 159
I got a current & voltage regulated flyback driver so I got some control. but it's NOT suitable for anything with sparks, electrostatic stuff only. I have tried a electrostatic motor on it, I have also used it for experiments on CRT's; and I also use it to find broken bulbs in the x-mas lights. The later one.. I just listen for bulbs that go "snap snap snap" or "bzzzz"
I plan to build 1-3 extra flyback drivers, but I will need some help in circuit design, tuning, testing, calibration so that's stuff for the future.
I got a 8A variac (with added soft-start from a microwave, fuse and power indicator) that I use for low voltage stuff. (below 260V AC that is, mains is 230V 50Hz here). I have used it some for SMPS testing e.t.c. And I also use it to control heating when we melt led for casting of fishing weights.
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How do you control your power for HV?
