Link to legacy FC thread
The following is the initial post from the original FC site posted on Nov 23rd 2016. Posting here for preservation and continued discussions.
Hey Guys. This is for those who have wondered about the plausibility of using induction for their VapCap. The answer is,
yes it works excellent. Surprised me as there seems to hardly have enough mass, but it seems not an issue at all.
I used the
cheapest induction heater I could find. Driving it with a power supply I have is left over from when I was making the Solo PA. Still have a dozen or so of
these pups. The problem is he only sells in lots of 20. But I suspect
this one will work just as well. Haven't visited in a while so might find better deals out there. A key point to watch for is what happens when the max current draw is met. The supply I'm using turns into a constant current supply when 5 amps is reached and starts to lower voltages to maintain 60 watts. This works out in our benefit in this application.
The adjustment for heat transfer is actually physically widening or narrowing the spaces in the driver coil.
If the coil is pushed such that the winding is close together, the unit draws 6-7 amps when the VC is inserted and clicks in 2 seconds. I spaced out the coil such that it draws 5 amps and takes 5 seconds to set off the click in the VC.
Here is the "working concept" mock-up:
From here is just a matter of a switch and cosmetics. I think a
FET switch would be the best route. To trigger the switch a couple low power tensile switches in parallel. One accessible by the external press and the other pressed with the insertion of the VC. And with a circuit similar to the above link, an off time delay variable resistor could be installed for heat timing. Maybe set to turn off shortly after the click sounds..?
I envision this as a two-piece device. Home power supply detachable and a standard car accessory plug to take its place. Could Velcro it to either the home supply or dashboard.
Enjoy!!!
&
Thoughts?
Modnote: FAQ for Pipes' IH heaters can be found here:
FAQ-VC Induction Heater