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Registered Member #1906
Joined: Sat Jan 03 2009, 05:06PM
Location:
Posts: 39
I know this isn't the first thread on cpacitor-charging but I can't seem to find what i need by searching.
What is the best way to charge capacitors? (for a 400V coilgun) How easy is it to construct charging circuit for the different methods of charging? Everywhere it seems to say different things about it...
Registered Member #90
Joined: Thu Feb 09 2006, 02:44PM
Location: Seattle, Washington
Posts: 301
For the 300-400v range, I really like transformers. It doesn't get any simpler or more reliable than a transformer followed by diodes. The power transformers known as "control transformer" with 2:1 winding ratio are relatively inexpensive and common. If your household wiring is 110v, you can connect it backwards to get 220vac, which rectifies out to DC at 220*1.414 = 310 vdc.
Add a variac on the primary side for easy voltage level control and an additional 10% boost and you're looking at 0 - 350vdc with a couple amps available for super quick charging.
I don't think you need a boost converter unless you want portability or to charge capacitors from a battery.
Cheers, Barry Barry reaches for the note left on the coffee table. "That was, uh, interesting to say the least. It was really nice knowing you, but I won't be back. Thanks for the good times. Yours, 2008".
Registered Member #1906
Joined: Sat Jan 03 2009, 05:06PM
Location:
Posts: 39
Thanks for the replies, And I forgot to say, I find this thing with using normal houshold electricity a bit... scary, so I'll stick to batteries :P
So you say boostconverter is the way to go? Do you know if there's a good guide or description or something on how to make them(or how they are made) anywhere on the web?
Registered Member #1062
Joined: Tue Oct 16 2007, 02:01AM
Location:
Posts: 1529
boost converter is a nice option, but i prefer voltage multipliers. All you need is capacitors and diodes, and you get a higher voltage. I use mains, but if you have a source of AC voltage, it will work.
Registered Member #1889
Joined: Mon Dec 29 2008, 07:36AM
Location:
Posts: 55
I agree with rp181 voltage multiplier are the safe way to go. They provide a filtered output that prevents spikes and aren't as difficult to control as boosters. Very cheap and easy to build as well as use. Here's a few links to sites that may offer some perspective:
Remember! add a capacitor on the hot side of the AC line. It helps to limit the max number of amps that can be drawn so you don't melt the wiring in your house. Use a film or polyester type capacitor rated for no less that 200v @ 20uf. That will limit your output to about an amp.
Each stage represents one degree of multiplication and the capacitors that are used need to be rated for the voltage that is being multiplied at that stage (or higher). If not they will detonate due to over charging. Each stage's capacitor should be about anywhere from 220uf to 440uf. It really doesn't matter unless you want to start talking about ripple current. 2 capacitors in series rated at 330v @220uf each work really well in the multiplication stages because it lessens the voltage drop across each, making them a bit more stable and boosting reliability.
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Capacitor charging
