Marx Generator, 5C30.50

Location:

• Floor Item Room 2237

Description:

This Marx Generator consists of 10, .02MFD 50kV capacitors that are charged in parallel, then discharged in series to generate a very high voltage, enough to splitter a 6" long piece of half inch doweling. The resistor is made of a Cupric Sulfate (CuSO₄) solution such that we maintain a resistivity of 1MΩ to 1.5MΩ between capacitors.

Setup:

1. Make the resistors are drained before unit is stored.
2. Make sure there are no bubbles within the liquid resistors. This will break that circuit. Drain and refill resistors if there are bubbles.
3. Firmly sectary green grounding wire to grounding black within the rooms.
4. Make sure you have the Discharge Wound and safety gear.
5. Insert either that Discharge Resistor or the piece of doweling.
6. The piece doweling should be allowed to soak for several hours in water to increase in conductivity.
7. Place one nail in the doweling to use to hold the would under the discharge ball of the Marx. (If the wood isn't wet enough a nail on the other end will help the bolt fine it's way.
8. Plug in the control box (the gray wire) to the Marx.
9. Plug in the power cord into a 30A 110V twist-lock outlet.
10. Turn on main power switch that is located on the Marx.
11. The Marx Generator is now ready to be charged.

Cautions, Warnings, or Safety Concerns:

1. Capacitors are tubing dielectric with a strength of 25kv max (#2031-068)

2. The Marx Generator WILL spontaneously discharge if it is charged too long.

3. This Marx Generator can produce a bolt about 18" long and is very bright and loud. (The bolt/flash is about the size of woman's pinky finger.)
4. Carefully remover the remaining charge on the capacitors by using the Discharge Wound. (Make sure the main switch to the Marx is off before)

Demonstration:

1. The Marx Generator is now ready to be charged.
2. From left to right; Flip the first switch on the control box.
3. Rotate the Variable resistor to 90%-100% (The capacitors are now charging)
4. Flip up the firing button guard as you count 10 or so seconds then push the detonation button.
5. After discharge the capacitors will recharge, unless you either flip the control box power switch off or turn the variable resistor to 0%.
6. There is Still some charge left on the capacitors after discharge. Carefully use the Discharge Wound of discharge the capacitors.

References:

1. Wikipedia

2. Penguins Lab

3. Mike's Electric Stuff

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Demonstrations

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