In rec.crafts.metalworking and sci.electronics.design, On Thu, 30 Mar
2006 19:19:12 GMT, Ignoramus27088
wrote:

Anyway, here is my question. I have a 9 kV DC power supply. (a
Franceformer). How can I safely test these caps before selling
them. At 22 kV, they can store about as much energy as a .22 bullet,
according to my calculations.

It would be less at 9 kV, but still, obviously, very deadly.

So. What is a safe way to charge them, verify that they hold the
charge, and then DIScharge them at 9 kV.

I've got an old Eico capacitance bridge/tester, it has a voltage
test function, you can crank it up to 500V and see the magic-eye open
as the capacitor charges (closed means it's pulling current). You turn
the voltage knob back down, and it discharges through the tester. You
can also use the bridge function to measure the capacitance (with
about 10 to 20 percent accuracy).
I agree with whoever else said it, say in your auction you tested
them to 500V or whatever you get them to, and you don't don't feel
comfortable and don't have the equipment to safely test them at higher
voltage. If anyone has any questions about this, just send 'em a
groups.google link to this thread. Well, maybe not, unless you don't
mind your buyer seeing the auction where you bought them.

Here's info on the Eico:
http://home.comcast.net/~btse1/fortrade/eico950.htm
ftp://bama.sbc.edu/downloads/eico/950/
Heathkit and perhaps others made similar devices.


i