Does mass of top load torus on Tesla coil matter?

[Datacom75]

How does the mass of a toroidal top load on a Tesla coil affect performance, assuming all dimensions are similar except for mass? You see, I have one hollow aluminum torus and one torus made of heavy, mostly solid metal. Both same size, but different weights. Thanks!

 

[Drmarshall]

How does the mass of a toroidal top load on a Tesla coil affect performance, assuming all dimensions are similar except for mass? You see, I have one hollow aluminum torus and one torus made of heavy, mostly solid metal. Both same size, but different weights. Thanks!

What performanc do you seek!
The masses you mention have no effect on the Tesla coil.
What matters are:-
The inductance of the primary coil
Of the secondary coil
Their self-capacitances
Their coefficient of coupling (leakage of magnetic flux between them)
Whether the whole lot, at that coupling resonates at the frequency of the primary current (capacitor discharge)

If by "top load" you mean the conductors attached to the ends of the secondary coil, what matters is their "Capacitance to ground) and "capacitance between"
This will be (in pF) of the same order of magnitude as their dimensions in cm
They should have no sharp points or corners and be excellently insulated.

 

[Windadct]

The torus is an rounded off area that helps prevent the top's very high voltage - not immediately "spark" off - when energized. The shape reduces the voltage stress in the air.

The mass has nothing to do with this - since this is an AC device, the ability to collect charge is not the purpose, compared to Van de Graaff Generator for example. However the mass still has no effect - since the charge in this case is only electrons - and since they repel each other they reside on the very outer surface - essentially none in the middle.

 

[Datacom75]

Drmarshall, Windadct, thank you for your most informative reply. Yes, I am primarily concerned with the torus generating a strong electric field, not overly concerned with current generation. Therefore, both your replies make complete sense. I will only be using the Coil as a secondary device for an electric field source, and since I will be using a type of wave-guide to achieve coherence and channel the electric field to yet a third and fourth device, the electric field must be very strong to survive a guided distance of over 10 meters. Your excellent advice therefore is extremely appreciated. Thank you!

 

[alphysicist]

I can confirm that the mass of the top load torus on a Tesla coil does indeed matter. The performance of a Tesla coil is affected by various factors, and the mass of the top load is one of them.

The top load on a Tesla coil is responsible for storing and releasing the electrical energy produced by the coil. This energy is used to create the high-voltage, high-frequency electrical discharges that are characteristic of a Tesla coil. The size and shape of the top load play a crucial role in determining the efficiency and effectiveness of this energy transfer process.

In the case of your two toroidal top loads, the main difference is the mass. The hollow aluminum torus is likely to have a lower mass compared to the solid metal torus. This difference in mass will affect the amount of electrical energy that can be stored in the top load. A heavier top load will be able to store more energy, resulting in more powerful and longer-lasting electrical discharges.

However, it is also important to note that the dimensions of the top load, such as the diameter and height, also play a significant role in determining its performance. A larger top load, even if it has a lower mass, may still be able to store more energy compared to a smaller, heavier top load.

In conclusion, while the mass of the top load is an important factor, it is not the only one that affects the performance of a Tesla coil. Other factors such as the dimensions and materials used also play a crucial role. It is recommended to experiment with different top load designs and materials to find the optimal combination for the desired performance.