Re: Gazing Ball top load,....

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Original poster: "Barton B. Anderson" <bartb@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>

Hi David,

I've really enjoyed your pics. Very nice topload! As I've mentioned 
with Terry's topload, I suspect there is to be some amount of corona 
off the top secondary. I know the field stress plots show all is 
good, but this particular configuration is new construction, so it 
makes for a good cross check for field plot against reality.

I think you can eliminate the top secondary small sparks by adjusting 
the topload spheres a little closer inward and/or slightly lower 
(inward would be my first choice). I still believe a center disc or 
flat ring to enhance top secondary shielding is a good idea and could 
even enhance the "coolness" of the look.

Adding the epoxy to the pin holes is a good idea but may not 
eliminate the breakout. Sounds to me from your description is that 
the coil could be better tuned from a smooth running perspective. 
Gerry mentioned a little more L in the primary and I would agree. A 
little detuning to bring the primary frequency down a few percent is 
a helpful adjustment and one I think should be tried before anything else.

Take care,
Bart

Tesla list wrote:

> Original poster: "david baehr" <dfb25@xxxxxxxxxxx>
>
> I got a chance to run it at night, now I can see a bit of corona off 
> the top winding of the sec. Also, had a couple of break out sparks 
> out the coil, one about half way up, and another about 3/4 of the 
> way up from the bottom, not racing sparks, just very small ,...maybe 
> from previous damage from months before when I hooked up a 
> rotary.  I put a little epoxy on thoeses small pin holes on the 
> sec., hope it helps But the coil is really running well, other than 
> that.........I didnt notice the small sec . sparks before, With the 
> smooth balls holding off the breakout a bit more than the dryer duct 
> , would that put more stress on the secondary winding ??