Noob questions. Heat sinks touching

[steven2583]

I'm modifying a ps regulator in a DAC and the space is pretty tight. Is there any danger if the heat sinks on two regulators(one positive and one negative) touch each other or the case? I'm thinking no but just wanted to make sure that something bad is going to happen to the DAC or someone(me) that may touch the case.

 

[richie00boy]

It's not ideal as it could cause a ground loop, and also it depends on the regulators. 78xx and 79xx types both have the tap connected to ground. 3x7 types have the tabs at different potentials.

Of course if the regulators are isolated then it does not matter.

 

[steven2583]

They are 3x7 regulators. I'm switching them out with some Belleson ones which are a little bigger then what's in there now.

 

[richie00boy]

You will have to isolate them then.