Voltage Multiplier Circuit Design

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a user who has constructed a three-stage voltage multiplier circuit, expecting an output of approximately 500 V DC from a 120 V AC input, but is only measuring 120 V DC. The user references the voltage multiplier equation, Vout(dc) = Vin(ac)*sqrt(2)*number of stages, to explain their expectations. Concerns are raised about the user's lack of hands-on experience with high voltages and AC mains, highlighting the potential dangers involved. The user aims to use a neon sign transformer to achieve a much higher DC output for a vacuum tube application. Ultimately, due to safety concerns, the thread is closed without further assistance.
a15m
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I have made a 3 stage voltage multiplier. My input is from the outlet so 120 V ac. I measure my output from the first and last capacitors of the bottom row as shown in the image. The output I am getting is 120 V dc. From the equation Vout(dc) = Vin(ac)*sqrt(2)*number of stages. With this equation I should be getting around 500 V dc theoretically. I am not sure what is going on, anybody have any insight? Thank in advance.
 

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Look more like a 3 stage diode fryer. I assume you are simulating this and have not actually built anything.

Where did that circuit and equation come from?
 
If you google voltage multiplier circuit that is the circuit that comes up. You can check it out here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltage_multiplier

The equation I don't remember what source but it was from a google search also.

Do you have any suggestions if I am inputting ac to multiply 3 or 4 times to get dc output?
 
a15m said:
I have made a 3 stage voltage multiplier. My input is from the outlet so 120 V ac. I measure my output from the first and last capacitors of the bottom row as shown in the image. The output I am getting is 120 V dc. From the equation Vout(dc) = Vin(ac)*sqrt(2)*number of stages. With this equation I should be getting around 500 V dc theoretically. I am not sure what is going on, anybody have any insight? Thank in advance.

a15m said:
If you google voltage multiplier circuit that is the circuit that comes up. You can check it out here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voltage_multiplier

The equation I don't remember what source but it was from a google search also.

Do you have any suggestions if I am inputting ac to multiply 3 or 4 times to get dc output?

What is your background and level of knowledge/experience in electronics? How much have you worked with AC Mains and high voltages in the past? What you are doing is dangerous.
 
I have theoretical experience but not any hands on. I have worked with high voltage power supplies but not with AC mains.

My actual goal is to take a neon sign transformer which gives me 9500 V and put it through my multiplier to get close to 40,000 V dc to power a vacuum tube.
 
a15m said:
I have theoretical experience but not any hands on. I have worked with high voltage power supplies but not with AC mains.

My actual goal is to take a neon sign transformer which gives me 9500 V and put it through my multiplier to get close to 40,000 V dc to power a vacuum tube.

I'm sorry, but with that level of experience, this is too dangerous for us to offer you help. Thread is closed.
 

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