Bert,

We corresponded a little bit about this recently on TCML and I got some useful information from you. I had a few more questions but since they regard quarter shrinkers I didn't want to abuse the TCML subject matter restriction.

My question concerns which of 2 energy discharge capacitors that I own, should I use for my quarter shrinker? The capacitor specs are as follows, some of which came from you (thanks):

Capacitor #1:

Maker: Aerovox
Capacitance: 100 uF
Maximum Voltage: 22 KV
Maximum voltage reversal: 20%

Capacitor #2:

Maker: Maxwell
Capacitance: 100 uF
Maximum Voltage: 10 KV
Maximum voltage reversal: 80%

On the surface I would pick the Aerovox because of its higher maximum energy storage (24 KJ), even though I will probably never use that. However, its 20% voltage reversal indicates that I can only charge it to 4.5 KV without exceeding its voltage reversal spec.

The Maxwell with its 80% voltage reversal spec indicates that I can charge it close to its maximum 10 KV without exceeding its 80% voltage reversal spec.

I suspect that the Aerovox will tolerate more than its 20% rating for this application because I will probably only be firing it a maximum of a few hundred times over its life.

Does your experience indicate which of these capacitors I should use?