Simple Capacitor System Question

[NoranPrease]

How does one go about 'compressing' a capacitor system?

                  -------| 1 |--------| 2 |----------| 3 |------------------------
                                 |                                       |
                                 |                                       |
                                 |----| 4 |-----------| 5 |--------------|

 

[mfb]

You can "draw" like that with [noparse]

[/noparse]-tags:
[code]
                   -------| 1 |--------| 2 |----------| 3 |--------------
                                 |                                       |
                                 |                                       |
                                 |----| 4 |-----------| 5 |--------------|

Start with elements you recognize? You can combine 2 and 3, for example.

 

[NoranPrease]

So it would 'compress' into something like

                  -------| 1 |------------| 2+3 |---------------------
                                 |                            |
                                 |                            |
                                 |--------| 4+5 |-------------|

 

[mfb]

I would not use "+" signs there, but it is the right approach. This allows another simplification now, and afterwards you can do a third and get a single effective capacitor.

 

[Nickie]

To compress a capacitor system, one can follow these steps:

1. First, make sure that the capacitor system is fully discharged to avoid any potential safety hazards.

2. Carefully remove the connections from the capacitor system, taking note of which wires are connected to which terminals.

3. Using a tool such as a screwdriver, gently push down on the metal plates of the capacitor to bring them closer together.

4. As the plates move closer together, the distance between them decreases, and the capacitance of the system increases.

5. Continue to compress the plates until the desired capacitance is achieved.

6. Once the desired capacitance is reached, reattach the wires to their respective terminals.

7. Test the capacitor system to ensure that it is functioning properly and has the desired capacitance.

It is important to note that compressing a capacitor system can be dangerous, as it involves handling high voltage components. It is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional or someone with experience in handling capacitors.