DC Power question.

[spongerich]

I'm using a PC Power supply for electrolysis.

My power supply will output 13 amps @ +12v and 20 amps @ +5v.

Can I use both simultaneously in my electrolysis setup?

If I connect the +12v to one of my graphite anodes, the +5v to the other anode and the combined ground to my part that's being de-rusted, will I:

A. Receive the combined total of 256w?
B. Receive the wattage only from one of the circuits?
C. Blow up everything?

 

[Torque1st]

It is a dual power supply with a common ground. Both will work but not a full amperage and you need some way to limit the current or it will probably burn up the supply or trip the overloads.

 

[spongerich]

you need some way to limit the current or it will probably burn up the supply or trip the overloads.

Such as???

I was using only the 12v power on my last one and it ran great until I had one of the anodes come loose and short out against a scroll saw frame I had in the tank. That let all of the smoke out in a big hurry.

Since I have a few power supplies I got from work for free , I'm going to give this a try and see if it's noticeably faster than the 12v alone.

Thanks!

 

[A_Pmech]

The power supply will likely fault when it sees more than +5V on the logic power side.

 

[Torque1st]

The power supply will likely fault when it sees more than +5V on the logic power side.

Yes, the tanks must be isolated. 5V in one tank and 12V in the other. Large power resistors are used to limit the current. I have used a bank of series or parallel light bulbs before. Most power supplies have an overall power rating that is usually overstated somewhat.

 

[spongerich]

Thanks guys. I hadn't planned to use 2 tanks.. I was hoping to juice up a single one.

Glad I asked... it's really no big loss. The last "250w" PS I had still worked great... I was hoping for a little more speed ,but that's part of the beauty of the electrolysis rig. It works while you don't.

 

[Ford12508]

I do not know if you would be willing to spend a few bucks, but 500W Power suppliers for computers can be had for next to nothing. Check out xoxide.com. It is $22 + shipping for a 25A @ +12V one, which is twice the power for only a little money if you want.

http://xoxide.com/logisys-550w-120mm-psu.html

Also, check your local recycling center for old computers, I used to pick up a ton of computers from there and either take parts I could resell, or strip the gold from the other parts. I found a few decent 400W+ PSUs from those computers for free.

 

[Torque1st]

If I remember correctly what you are actually using is current so using the higher current (5V) power supply is best.

Nothing wrong with using two tanks, maybe a big one and a small one.

 

[spongerich]

I do not know if you would be willing to spend a few bucks, but 500W Power suppliers for computers can be had for next to nothing.

I was actually looking at one from a big-*** network switch. It was something like 72a @ 5v. I'm afraid I'll boil my electrolyte with that though.