Capacitors in a multiphase voltage multiplier?

In summary, the ideal ratio between the capacitance of the capacitors in the three AC lines and the DC line at the bottom should be 3:1. This means that the capacitance of the DC line should be three times larger than each of the AC lines. The purpose of the capacitors in the DC line is to maintain a constant voltage at the output of the multiplier. If these capacitors are removed, the open-circuit voltage at the output will increase. This information can also be found on Wikipedia under "Voltage multiplier".
  • #1
carmatic
92
1
multiplier-3p(2).png


what should be the ratio between the capacitance of the capacitors in the three AC lines , and that of the capacitors in the DC line at the bottom?
should all the capacitors be the same value ... even though there are AC lines, with an identical capacitor in each of them, the total 'linear' capacitance would be multiplied by three, but then again the DC line fluctuates at three times the rate, so charge leaves and enters the DC capacitors 3 times for every time that it happens once on an AC line

also, what is the function of the capacitors in the DC line? i have found that if these capacitors are deleted and replaced with no connection, the open-circuit voltage at the output of the multiplier will increase...
 
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  • #2
You could have found the answer on Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltage_multiplier
Assuming that the peak voltage of the AC source is +Us, and that the C values are sufficiently high to allow, when charged, that a current flows with no significant change in voltage, then the (simplified) working of the cascade is as follows:
 

1. What is the purpose of a capacitor in a multiphase voltage multiplier?

Capacitors in a multiphase voltage multiplier are used to store and release electrical energy in order to smooth out the output voltage. They also help to reduce ripple and noise in the output signal.

2. How do capacitors work in a multiphase voltage multiplier?

Capacitors work by storing electrical charge on their plates. When connected in a multiphase voltage multiplier, they are charged and discharged repeatedly, which helps to increase the output voltage.

3. What type of capacitors are commonly used in multiphase voltage multipliers?

The most commonly used capacitors in multiphase voltage multipliers are electrolytic capacitors, as they have a high capacitance and can handle high voltages. Ceramic or film capacitors may also be used in some cases.

4. How are capacitors sized in a multiphase voltage multiplier?

The size of a capacitor in a multiphase voltage multiplier is determined by the amount of ripple and noise that needs to be reduced in the output signal. Larger capacitors have a higher capacitance and can provide better smoothing and filtering.

5. What are the potential issues with using capacitors in a multiphase voltage multiplier?

One potential issue is that if the capacitors are not properly sized or connected, they can cause voltage imbalances between phases, leading to a distorted output signal. Additionally, capacitors have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced periodically to maintain the efficiency of the voltage multiplier.

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