[TCML] Climbing Arcs

[Bert Hickman]

Hi Tony,

The video that David Rieben discussed in his latest post shows similar 
"snappiness" to the arc.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dLTEOM3qQc

The higher voltages of X-ray transformers increases the effect of 
parasitic capacitance on Jacobs Ladders, making them sound quite nasty 
even without any other lumped C across the gap. A small HV cap across 
the gap in an NST also helps raise the open circuit voltage, making it 
easier to restart the arc at the base of the ladder. It's a bit harder 
on the NST however.

Re: coins & Stuff  - they are an oddity for sure. BTW, we'll be 
appearing in an upcoming issue of Coin World Magazine, and our 
Lichtenbergs are now on the cover of the latest Edmund Scientific catalog.

Do you still making Geissler tube replicas? The one you traded for is 
still very beautiful!

Best wishes,

Bert
-- 
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Sfxneon at aol.com wrote:
> 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 at aquila.net 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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