Hi all,
Is there any reason that a large nichrome heater element would be inappropriate for load testing a power supply? I don't have any large power resistors on hand but I do have a laundry dryer heater element that measures ~ 9R5.
The PS in question is +/- 30vdc and 300va
Is there any reason that a large nichrome heater element would be inappropriate for load testing a power supply? I don't have any large power resistors on hand but I do have a laundry dryer heater element that measures ~ 9R5.
The PS in question is +/- 30vdc and 300va
Last edited:
Should be fine. Nichrome is claimed to have low TCR, so good from that on that point as well.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Thank you both for the replies. While this test rig is likely temporary, I feel vindicated for holding on to this element for so long.
Rayma, is the water bath to maintain consistent resistance or simply as a means of managing heat?
Cheers
Rayma, is the water bath to maintain consistent resistance or simply as a means of managing heat?
Cheers
You have to use the water, or the element will burn up.
It isn't designed for operation in free air.
It isn't designed for operation in free air.
You shouldn't have qualms about bizarre loads: this one did a very useful job everytime I needed it, about once or twice a year.
The Franken-Load
It cost me nothing, being made of pure crap materials....
Although the heating elements were designed to be water cooled, I didn't use water: in a messy lab, where high voltage is present, it isn't a good idea.
Instead, I heavily derated the max power, and used forced-air cooling.
It is not pretty, but it works as a charm when needed
The Franken-Load
It cost me nothing, being made of pure crap materials....
Although the heating elements were designed to be water cooled, I didn't use water: in a messy lab, where high voltage is present, it isn't a good idea.
Instead, I heavily derated the max power, and used forced-air cooling.
It is not pretty, but it works as a charm when needed
Rayma,
This is a dryer element rated at 5400W @240Vac operated in a free/forced air environment. Your comment plus Elvee's following post reminded me that I have a large water heater element or two somewhere in the shop that may prove useful.
Elvee, I like it man... Franken-load indeed! I love re-use, salvage and otherwise practical use of parts that would end up in a landfill. Kudos. Perhaps I'll build out my own Franken-Style selectable load for permanent use on the bench.
This is a dryer element rated at 5400W @240Vac operated in a free/forced air environment. Your comment plus Elvee's following post reminded me that I have a large water heater element or two somewhere in the shop that may prove useful.
Elvee, I like it man... Franken-load indeed! I love re-use, salvage and otherwise practical use of parts that would end up in a landfill. Kudos. Perhaps I'll build out my own Franken-Style selectable load for permanent use on the bench.
Ok, if it is not a water heater element, then that does not apply.
Sounds like the dryer element is more suitable, as long as you don't start a fire.
Sounds like the dryer element is more suitable, as long as you don't start a fire.
Last edited:
Thank you the clarification. I'm somewhat theory-challenged despite years of diy electronics experience. Thick as a brick may be a more apt description
Cheers
Cheers
After a successful test it occurred to me that with a new washer and dryer being delivered in about a weeks time I have another donor nichrome element. As it turns out, it's another 5400 watt unit but it appears to have a center tap on the element. I'll meter it out more closely when my OD chores are done but it looks like with some switching I'll have ~5R, 10R, 20R and 30R ranges available. ��
