Video: Watch this demo
Description: An AC power source is connected to a pair of transformers which step up the voltage.
With an initial gap of about 1cm at the bottom, ~10,000Vac creates an electric arc that rises to the top of the two metal rods.
Equipment:
- VariAC
- VariAC to banana plug cable
- 23,000 Turn coil
- 250 Turn coil
- Two long metal rods
- Iron core inductor with Iron core clamp
- Abrasive pad
Setup Procedure:
- Place both coils on the inductor clamp.
- Attach the crossbar to the inductor and screw it on tight.
- Polish the metal rods with the abrasive pad.
- Insert the two metal rods into the 23,000 turn coil and position them to leave an air gap of about 1cm at the base.
- With the VariAC off, connect the cable from the VariAC to the 250 Turn coil on tap point A and E (M would half the number of turns to 125, which makes the VariAC much more sensitive (not good)).
- Test to make sure the spark starts and moves up the ladder.
- If the spark does not travel well, turn off the VariAC and adjust the rods orientation. (never adjust the rods when the VariAC is on)
Demonstration Procedure:
- Turn on the VariAC.
- Sometimes it may take 5 seconds before a spark will start. If after 10 seconds nothing happens, try increasing the voltage or decreasing the spark gap distance (with the VariAC off).
- Slight adjustments may be needed to the VariAC to get the spark to start and travel up the ladder.
- If the spark starts but stays at the very bottom, decrease the voltage on the VariAC slightly (if the spark stays too long, the metal rods will burn).
- Do not use for long periods of time (Over 10 minutes of continuous use).
High Voltage / High Current.
Never touch the metal rods when turned on.
Due to the high current and heat, this is fire hazard. Keep away from flammable materials.
28-F7
