Simple High Voltage Generator Circuit

This article will show you how to build a special kind of generator that makes super high frequency electricity.

This lets you do experiments that would not be possible with normal power supplies.

One cool thing about this high frequency electricity is that it mostly stays on the surface of your skin if you touch it by accident, so it is less likely to shock you.

However, it can still get hot so be careful not to burn yourself if you touch the circuit directly.

WARNING: Building circuits with high voltage can be dangerous.

Only do this with adult supervision.

What is a High Voltage Generator Circuit:

A high voltage generator circuit is an electronic circuit designed to produce high voltage level.

These circuits are often used in various applications such as experimental physics, medical equipment, industrial processes, and sometimes for specific hobbyist projects.

The term high voltage typically refers to voltages significantly higher than the standard household voltage of 120V or 230V.

Circuit Diagram:

Parts List:

Circuit Construction:

• Connect the 555 IC to create a simple oscillator circuit.
• Use resistors and a potentiometer to set the operating frequency.
• Connect the MOSFET to the oscillator circuit for proper switching.
• Include a power supply section with appropriate filtering components.
• Connect the primary winding to the MOSFET output.
• Connect the secondary winding to the output.
• Include diodes for rectification, ensuring a unidirectional current flow.
• Add an inductor and capacitors for filtering and smoothing the output.

Heat Sink Installation:

• Attach the MOSFET to a heat sink to prevent overheating.

Safety Features:

• Implement safety features such as fuses and isolation to protect against electrical faults.

Formulas:

Nonetheless, the following equations and ideas are important for comprehending these circuits:

Transformer Turns Ratio:

V_out = V_in * (N_secondary / N_primary)

where,

• Vout is output voltage
• Vin is input voltage
• Nsecondary is the number of turns in the secondary coil and
• Nprimary is the number of turns in the primary coil.

High voltage generators based on transformers can use this formula.

It illustrates how the secondary coils rotation ratio in relation to the primary coil determines how the voltage is increased.

An increase in secondary turns raises the output voltage.

Transformer Winding:

Primary Winding:

• Wind six turns of thick insulated wire around the ferrite core.

Secondary Winding:

• Wind 300 turns of 0.4mm diameter or less wire on a solder spool.
• Organize the winding into several layers ensuring no overlapping turns.

Insulation:

• Use plastic strips or insulation material between winding layers.
• Extend insulation to the edge of the spool with at least two layers.

Spacing and Attachment:

• Leave a 3 to 4mm gap on each side of the winding.
• Use tape to secure windings and prevent them from getting too close to the spools edge.

Terminal and Transition Placement:

• Space coil terminals transitions and outlets evenly.
• In a five layer winding maintain a 120 degree spacing.

Testing:

• Power up the circuit gradually checking for proper functioning and resonant frequency.

Monitoring:

• Monitor the power supply for any irregularities and ensure it does not damage nearby electronics.

Safety Precautions:

• Follow safety guidelines and warnings.
• Avoid direct contact with the output to prevent burns or shocks.

Conclusion

Remember to exercise caution throughout the construction process especially when working with high voltages.

If you are not experienced with high voltage generator circuits consider seeking guidance from an expert or mentor.

Additionally, always prioritize safety by using appropriate protective gear and following safety protocols.

References

Design and Construction of 30 kV High Voltage Generator

Marx generator