Anodized aluminum electrostat stators

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#2
Hi,

You don´t achieve the insulation levels required for a safe-to-touch stator.
If You can insure that the stator´s be never touched the anodizing could provide just enough insulation to keep a sysmmetrical ESL from flashover, as in theory the voltage difference between stator and diaphragm becomes 0V when they touch.
The electrical parameters of the anodized layer are useable.
I´d assume though that the rough surface will likely accumulate dust and humidity and as such it´d be prone to develop leakage over time rather faster than other coatings.

jauu
Calvin
 
#3
Due to porosity of oxide at particular treatment it can be impregnated and achieve rather high quality insulation level. What would the price though - it's very time consuming process. I've heard claims of 3..5 kV anodizing techniques to replace discrete corundum insulating washers.
 
#4
Just to add my experience to this thread for anyone interested. I built panels from anodised aluminium staters that worked well on a bias of 3kV. The stator panels were 300mm by 800mm by 2mm thick and were anodised by a supplier here in West London. I ask for soft anodising which builds a thick layer of anodised Alu, which is just Aluminium Oxide, a form of ceramic. I never experienced any form of insulation breakdown and would consider using them again. As for benefits I think the only advantage is aesthetic.
 
#5
It has to be porous. Otherwise you can not make thick layer since Al2O3 is dielectric and current does not flow through one. Usual media in what aluminum oxidation takes place is an etchant like liquid glass. It does not mean the end result can not be a dielectric.
 
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