I made a quick video to show my progress over the last few months.
Quick, because I did not add an audio track or text explaining what you are seeing.
I'm just not good at it and so it takes a long time to get it in a presentable form.
So let me tell you here.
- 0-0.08: We had build a system to generate roughly 1.5 MV in short pulses. That was useful in some experiments but for other measurements we need a more constant operation.
- 0.08-0.36: To achieve this we would need much more power and control over that power. Also we don't want to produce mayhem on the net so we needed a generator. We got a 100 KVA diesel generator.
- 0.36-0.42: Since we have 2 HV transformers we would be better of with a 2 phase supply rather than 3 phase, so we rewired the generator to give 440V (phase-phase)
- 0.42-0.50: this power goes to our two HV transformers.
- 0.50-0.53: we ti-rapped all the wires from the secondary to the wooden frame (that was only done partially before)
- 0.54-1:44: I made this arduino controlled static spark-gap which you can set to any voltage (spark distance) and it has some extra features (like discharging the capacitors).
- 1:44-1.59: first test, notice the smoke rising next to the red ("extra") coil
- 2:00: see the damage that the sparks do on the spark gap
- 2.02: and... that was where the smoke came from
- 2:04-2.17: repairs on the secondary coil
the process of testing and repairing is repeated a couple of times
around 2.52-2.55 the coil seems to work fine, but then it fails again.
- 3.10: lots of silicone kit used....
- 3.22: but the problem remains...
Now, I am rebuilding the coil...
Enjoy the video!