Re: [TCML] gaps

[futuret@xxxxxxx]

David, Mike,



Probably the most efficient way to run NST's is with a 120 bps

synchronous rotary spark gap.? Such operation will usually

give longer and better looking sparks and spark action, than

using a static fixed gap.? However a 120 bps triggered static gap can
give?results which rival that of the sync rotary.? It's true that a static gap may stress
the NST less because the?firing voltage is usually lower and the
bang size smaller.? However in actual practice a vast number
of 120 bps sync rotary NST systems have been built, and
the failure rate is?extremely low.? In higher powered systems,
static gaps can become hard to quench and cool, so rotaries
are usually used.



Regarding quenching, rotaries do not necessarily give any

better quenching action in a typical?NST coil.? The quench-time

mostly seems to depend on the number of series gaps

whether it's a rotary or a static gap.? For fixed gap systems,

the use of a fan or air blast can help the quenching also.
Depending on the power level it may be necessary to cool
the static gapsl by using a fan or air blast.

Generally speaking the requirements of a coil change 
as the power level increases.? A static gap which works
excellently at lower powers may not work at all at higher 
powers.? 



The mechanical dwell times for rotaries is not as short as

often believed.? Usually the system runs out

of energy?before the gaps pull away from each other.? In other

words it's the exhaustion of the energy in the system which

causes the quenching, rather than a mechanical pulling apart

of the spark.? Rotaries generally determine *when* the gap fires,
not when it quenches.? 

I used no question marks in the above writing.

? http://futuret.110mb.com

Cheers,
John





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