Original poster: "D.C. Cox" <resonance@xxxxxxxxxx>For NST operation I run a non-synchro with 5 electrodes which results in 184 pps. No power arcing observed up to 4 kva. With a Terry filter non-synchro works fine and produces nice output sparks. Xmfrs seem to last nearly indefinitely with short 30-45 sec run periods.
Try using 1/2 inch dia. fixed electrodes and you won't get power arcing which results from insufficient cooling at the electrode surfaces --- red hot electrode ends promote power arc formation. I run just two sparkgaps not four with all NST configurations at or below 120 mA. At 180-200 mA we go to 4 stationary electrodes.
Dr. Resonance
Original poster: "Gerry Reynolds" <gerryreynolds@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> Hi All,The SRSG I built for my NST farm (15KV 120ma) has two static and 4 flying electrodes and arcs thru two gaps. The 8 inch diameter disc runs at 1800rpm (120pps) and the four flying electrodes are all electrically connected together and rotate on a 6.5 inch diameter circle . I have noticed that at the 2KW level, I might be seeing the beginnings of power arcing.Question: for higher power levels it is certainly beneficial to go to a larger disc, but is it also beneficial to have four stationary electrodes and arc thru 4 gaps??Gerry R.