Re: would a tesla coil induced spark to a nearby power line cause catastrophe?



AZ Nomad wrote:

On Thu, 18 Jan 2007 03:21:24 GMT, Rob Lucas <rvotin@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

Suppose that an arc from my tesla coil leaped approx ten feet to one
of the un-insulated conductors on a nearby utility pole (carrying
single phase 120VAC).

Obviously this would probably destroy most sensitive electronics
within my neighbors' homes. But would it also (due to the
ionization/breakdown of the air) induce a standing arc from phase to
ground or phase-to-phase on the utility pole?

Perhaps a more realistic scenario would be an arc from the coil
hitting an electrical outlet in my garage. Could this induce a
sustained arc from phase to ground inside the outlet box? (of course
this wouldnt be too bad since the 15 amp circuit breaker would pop
soon). Just something to ponder, thanks for any insites.

Your telsla coil would have about as much effect on the
power grid as stroking a cat would have on the lights in the next
room.

Don't underestimate cats !

Graham


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