[sdiy] [ot/3] Using ElectrolytCapacitors

[J. Larry Hendry]

I missed out on the earlier part so this discussion.  What was the purpose
of wanting to put capacitors on the AC line?  I have a fair amount of
experience with this as it relates to higher voltages.  What was the purpose
of this experiment?  The only practical application of large capacitors on
the AC line (as far as I know) is to shift the phase angle relationship
between the current and voltage.  Usually (but not always) this is to offset
the opposite lagging current of inductive loads.

And, I can testify that there are many hazards to be aware of when mixing
capacitors and mains AC.  Peak voltages acoss the switching device can
approach three times line RMS voltage so, switching devices need to account
for that.  But, I do have a lot of experience with AC line capacitors if the
person placing the original post wants to mail me privately.

Larry Hendry

   > first, I'm no engeneer, I don't know very much about electronics,
   > but I am eager to learn. Thus I listen what you all write here.
   > Now, in an experimental circuit, I need quite beeg (470uF)
   > capacitors in a AC line.