Mechanical Music Digest  Archives
You Are Not Logged In Login/Get New Account
Please Log In. Accounts are free!
Logged In users are granted additional features including a more current version of the Archives and a simplified process for submitting articles.
Home Archives Calendar Gallery Store Links Info
MMD > Archives > May 1998 > 1998.05.13 > 09Prev  Next


Switch Arcing in Player Piano
By Scott Olson

I assume that you are using this on 120 volts AC (line voltage in the
US).  Place a _good_ Mylar capacitor, 0.1 mfd @ 600 volts ( at least
600 volts -- even better is 1600 volts!) across the terminals of the
switch.  Use Sprague "orange drop" or USA-made equivalent -- don't use
the imported junk)  This should knock out the arcing.

If you are on 220 volts use the 1600 WV DC capacitor.   A TV shop should
have these, but again be wary of junky import stuff.  I have had
capacitors short out with a big bang.  Also observe proper AC safety
precautions in mounting this capacitor so the leads won't touch
anything or anyone.

Scott Olson - Missoula Montana ( much needed rain finally, 2nd day)

 [ There should also be a small resistor in series with the capacitor
 [ (making the circuit a 'snubber network') to protect the switch from
 [ the capacitor discharging current when the switch closes.  5 ohms at
 [ 2 watts is probably okay for a switch rated at 250 VAC operating on
 [ 120 VAC mains.  -- Robbie


(Message sent Wed 13 May 1998, 12:56:04 GMT, from time zone GMT-0400.)

Key Words in Subject:  Arcing, Piano, Player, Switch

Home    Archives    Calendar    Gallery    Store    Links    Info   


Enter text below to search the MMD Website with Google



CONTACT FORM: Click HERE to write to the editor, or to post a message about Mechanical Musical Instruments to the MMD

Unless otherwise noted, all opinions are those of the individual authors and may not represent those of the editors. Compilation copyright 1995-2024 by Jody Kravitz.

Please read our Republication Policy before copying information from or creating links to this web site.

Click HERE to contact the webmaster regarding problems with the website.

Please support publication of the MMD by donating online

Please Support Publication of the MMD with your Generous Donation

Pay via PayPal

No PayPal account required

                                     
Translate This Page