Turbine ECU starter voltage drop

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on reducing the voltage from a 12.6V ECU starter output to 6V for a model gas turbine starter motor. The ECU can supply 20 amps, while the starter motor operates efficiently at a maximum of 5 amps. A Zener diode is suggested as a potential solution for voltage regulation, although a simple voltage divider is also recommended for demo purposes, with caution advised regarding the watt rating of the resistors used.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Zener diode functionality and applications
  • Knowledge of voltage dividers and resistor watt ratings
  • Familiarity with electrical current ratings and efficiency considerations
  • Basic principles of gas turbine operation and ECU functionality
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Zener diode specifications and selection criteria
  • Learn about designing voltage dividers for specific voltage drops
  • Investigate resistor wattage calculations and thermal management
  • Explore the operational characteristics of model gas turbines and their electronic control units
USEFUL FOR

Electronics hobbyists, engineers working with gas turbines, and anyone involved in voltage regulation and circuit design.

scott quinn
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Hi Guys,

I have a model gas turbine that is driven by an ecu ... the ecu starter output is 12.6volts but the starter motor is rated to 6volts.

The ECU can easily supply 20amps although the starter motor is rated to 5amps max efficiency.

I need to drop the voltage from 12.6volts to 6volts and make sure I don't pull more than the max current ...

I have been reading about Zener Diodes here http://www.wisc-online.com/objects/ViewObject.aspx?ID=SSE7005and it seems to do exactly what I need how ever I am not sure what value components I require ...

Can anybody help me out? I don't want to fry my ecu :redface:



Scott.
 
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If this is just for demo purposes, and you don't care about efficiency, just use a simple voltage divider.

Pay close attention to the watt rating of the resistors you use. The divider will get hot.
 

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