Particle Trapping: AC Source Questions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of sourcing an appropriate AC power supply for trapping particles, specifically focusing on the requirements for voltage and current levels. The context includes practical issues related to equipment failure and the need for specific electrical characteristics for ongoing research involving particle suspension and measurement techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their need for an AC source that can provide up to 1,300 Vac RMS and 1 kHz with minimal current, expressing frustration over the high cost of AC calibrators.
  • The same participant questions whether to ask the original electrician to repair the burned-up device or seek another technician, citing difficulties in finding necessary components for a new design.
  • Another participant inquires if the term "trapping particles" refers to trapping electrons in a 2D plane, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the research focus.
  • A later reply clarifies that the research involves suspending particulates like Alumina Powder and using light scattering for measurements, while also expressing concern about sharing specific research details due to potential intellectual property issues.
  • One participant suggests that if the necessary components are not found, it may be best to have the original electrician handle the repairs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best course of action regarding the repair of the AC source or the appropriate terminology for the research topic. There are differing views on whether to continue seeking components or rely on the original electrician.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the availability of suitable AC power sources and the specific requirements for their research. There are also limitations related to the original device's design and the lack of documentation.

Who May Find This Useful

Researchers and practitioners involved in particle trapping, electrical engineering, and those facing similar equipment sourcing challenges in experimental setups.

splitringtail
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I don't know which sub forum is appropriate for my question, but here it is.

My research involves trapping particles, which I have done. But my AC source, which supplies an AC to a central ring electrode to radially stabilize the particle, has burned up (7-3-08.

The only instruments I have found so far can give me the AC voltage ranges and frequencies w/ no or little current I need are AC Calibrators. These things are quite expense... even when refurbished. We actually had an AC calibrator sent off, but it would be faster just to buy something and overnight it.

I don't need the precision of the AC Calibrator, since it will not be used to take measurements.
Yet, the low end AC power sources have noticeable currents along with these voltages, which is a risk to me and other equipment.

Keywords I have used are: AC Source, AC Power Supply, AC Voltage Supply, AC Power Source

First question is have you came a across simple AC sources that produce up to 1,300 Vac RMS and 1 khz at little current levels? Is there a particular manufacturer or keyword I should be using in my search?

The device that burned up it's resistors was built by a electrician who never made a schematic. However, he's been really busy and has like selective hearing (I had to wait weeks for him to make HV cables. While he thought it out, they actually had the cable on hand) and he doesn't have HV Equipment (for some reason) to perform the maintence.

Question on that is should I ask him to fix it or take it to someone else, b/c I haven't been able to find the transformer's and frequency drivers to provide the range of 0-2000 Vac RMS and 0 to 1 kHz, to make a newer design.
 
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When you say trapping particles do you mean the experiment where you trap electrons in a 2D plane?
 
No, I am talking particulates like powders. I have suspended Alumina Powder. I need to suspend a particle and I use light scattering to take my measurements. I do not want to reveal the exact nature of my research b/c someone who will read this post might take my ideas and publish the work before I do.
 
If you haven't been able to find the stuff you need to fix it it would be best to take it to the electrician who made it.
 

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