Re: Tesla coils on GFCIs (fwd)

[<sroys@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Tue, 7 Dec 2004 20:04:19 -0800
From: Jim Lux <jimlux@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: High Voltage list <hvlist@xxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: Tesla coils on GFCIs (fwd)


----- Original Message -----
From: "High Voltage list" <hvlist@xxxxxxxxxx>
To: "hvlist" <hvlist@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 7:39 PM
Subject: Tesla coils on GFCIs (fwd)


> Original poster: <sroys@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
>
>
>
> ---------- Forwarded message ----------
> Date: Tue, 7 Dec 2004 15:29:33 -0700
> From: Gomez Addams <gomez@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
> To: High Voltage list <hvlist@xxxxxxxxxx>
> Subject: Tesla coils on GFCIs
>
>   I just realized that I may have to install GFCIs in my new wiring in
> the "shop" because in reality it is a garage, the code requires GFCI
> protected outlets in garages.  I may or may not have to install GFCIs
> in the shop area (especially as it is physically distinct from the rest
> of the garage, with a separating wall) but frankly, for life safety
> reasons it is not a bad idea.

Perhaps not required. Get a copy of the relevant codes and check.  GFCIs
aren't required for instance, on single outlets intended for a dedicated use
(i.e. a refrigerator). Or, on circuits rated at more than 20A, etc.


>
>   However, GFCIs being electronic devices with sensitive electronic
> amplifiers in them, I see this as a recipe for trouble when it comes
> time to run Tesla Coils out there.
>
> 1: Has anyone successfully run a Tesla coil from a GFCI protected
> outlet (presuming a well isolated HV transformer),

Yes... NST 15/30 with static gap

> and
> 2: has anyone had trouble with GFCIs when Tesla coils have been
> operated nearby?

No.
>

Practically speaking, I imagine that there is a fair amount of variability
in the sensitivity of these devices.  Also, you could look into installing a
GFCI breaker in the panel, rather than a GFCI outlet which is then
daisychained. The breakers are a bit more expensive.