Maximizing Wattage in DIY Heaters: Impedance Matching with ZVS Power Supply

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design and optimization of a DIY heater using a ZVS power supply. Participants explore the mathematical and theoretical aspects of impedance matching to maximize wattage output, particularly in relation to modifying the heater's inner conductor.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on the math and theory behind impedance matching for a heater powered by a ZVS supply.
  • Another participant suggests researching the skin effect in cylinders and mentions that the relevant expressions involve Bessel functions, emphasizing the importance of knowing the source frequency.
  • A participant expresses feeling out of their depth due to their mechanical background in an electrical context.
  • There is a humorous exchange about Bessel functions and a suggestion that the original poster might consider collaborating with an electrical engineer or purchasing a standard unit to avoid safety risks.
  • The original poster reassures others about their safety and expresses a desire to ensure proper load matching with the ZVS driver.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to impedance matching or the specifics of the heater design. There are varying levels of expertise and comfort with the technical details, leading to some uncertainty in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for understanding specific mathematical expressions and the potential risks involved in DIY electrical projects, but do not resolve these complexities.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY electronics, particularly those focused on heating elements and impedance matching in electrical systems, may find this discussion relevant.

EzeTom
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Hi folks,

I want to build a heater similar to this http://www.thermon.com/us/products.aspx?prodid=10 , using a ZVS power supply from ebay (such as this one -http://[URL="http://www.ebay.com/itm/381569526996?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT"]www.ebay.com/itm/381569526996?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT[/URL]) )

As well I would like to replace the inner conductor with another "pipe" to try to effectively double the wattage per foot of heating available.

Can someone point me in the right direction as to the math and theory behind ensuring I can impedance match my load to one of these power supplies? Thank you in advance!
 
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Have you searched the internet for analyses of skin effect in cylinders? You should find plenty. The expressions are in terms of Bessel functions. You'll need to know the frequency of your source. It's unclear exactly what the company in your link is doing, but I imagine that the center conductor is contributing given that there's no current flowing on the outside of the shield.
 
Thanks for the reply.

I've googled quite a bit of stuff,, but I am a mechanical guy in the electrical world and sometimes feel a bit lost :)
 
marcusl said:
The expressions are in terms of Bessel functions.
EzeTom said:
Im a mechanical guy in the electrical world
How do you feel about Bessel functions?

J/K.

If you're not an electrical guy, maybe you should consider partnering up with a local one, or just buying a standard unit? We don't want you to get hurt or start a fire...
 
berkeman said:
How do you feel about Bessel functions?

J/K.

If you're not an electrical guy, maybe you should consider partnering up with a local one, or just buying a standard unit? We don't want you to get hurt or start a fire...

Thanks Berkman :)

I don't think I will start a fire or electrocute myself : ) and hopefully I don't let the smoke out of anything!

I just want to make sure I can match the load of my heater with the output of the ZVS driver from eBay reasonably well..
 

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