System energy was calculated as: Joules = 1/2 CV; (0.5) (30uf) (9.0) = 135 Joules (3). The equations above assume the system is fully charged. However, the analysis indicates the system is only being charged to a fraction of its maximum (theoretical) capacity, i.e. to 0.145 joules for the 60 sec. and 0.287 joules for 85 sec. charging time (7). The RC time constant was calculated as (60 megohms-ESR for power supply) (30uf) = 1800 secs., 60/1800 = 30 mins. This result also indicates the system is only being operated at a fraction of its potential. In any case, detonation of the test wire does occur based on my observations above and other research done (see references).

Additional experiments are planned using the apparatus described such as the generation of high-density magnetic fields and studying their affects; and the study of plasma generation and acceleration.

References

1. W.G. Chace and H.K. Moore, Exploding Wires, Plenum Press, NY 1959.
2. W.G. Chace and H.K. Moore, Exploding Wires, Volume 3, Plenum Press, NY 1964.
3. A.D. Moore, Electrostatics: Exploring, Controlling, and Using Static Electricity, Doubleday & Co. Garden City, NY 1968
4. R.E. Iannini, Build Your Own Laser, Phase, Ion Ray Gun and Other Working Space-Age Projects, Tab Books, Inc., Blue Ridge Summit, PA 1983
5. J. Freau, Personal Correspondence, May 19, 1993
6. C. Beaulieu, Personal Discussions, April, 1993
7. C. Grassano, Capacitor Charge/Discharge Analysis, May 5, 1993

Sources of Parts/Supplies

1. Power Supply: Fair Radio Sales, CO, Inc., 1016 E. Eureka St., P.O. Box 1105, Lima, OH, 45802, (#ACE-HV3000)
2. Capacitors: Fair Radio Sales and/or Skycraft Surplus, Inc., P.O. Box 536186, Orlando, FL 32853-6186 (Plastic Caps, Inc., part # LK30-106Y)
3. High Voltage Relay: Skycraft Surplus (J. Poliak, Inc., part #REL-908)
4. Misc. Hardware/components/HV resistor: Local hardware store, Radio Shack, R&D Electronics, Inc. 1224 Prospect Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115.

Schematic: