1. Can someone explain, (in simple language, I basically know littlemore than the names of various components) how to reduce DC amps?I want to heat a container of water in an automotive use. I have oneof those cheap "heating coils" that you plug into the cigarettelighter outlet, and drop the coil into a mug of water to make instantcoffee or tea. But two problems:- I powered it from a battery charger and it drew 10 amps, way to much- after only a few seconds, it gets way to hot to touch. I don't wantit hotter than, say, 100-120 F.I think these two goals are compatible, but I don't know how to reducethe amps.2. I want the above to shut off automatically, both when power isremoved (i.e. car turned off) and after some amount of time, say 10minutes - just like the rear window defroster. How to do this?Thanks in advance for any ideas,buddy

A simple way:It won't reduce the "amps" but you can set to shut off when the water reached the desired temperature. It will of course come back on if the water cools off. Also, you have to keep water in contact with the heating element and the thermostat bulb or the element will continue to heat up.Since you don't explain what your end goal is, I can't advise you on the safety of what you are doing. I would suggest that given the possibility to over heat if the water runs out, you should have a float switch to prevent the element from coming on without any water in the container.-- Joe Leikhim K4SAT"The RFI-EMI-GUY"©"Treason doth never prosper: what's the reason?For if it prosper, none dare call it treason.""Follow The Money" ;-P

Amateur questions - how to reduce DC amps ? Auto shut off?

Jul 20, 2008 21 Replies

Rate this thread:

langwadt 18 years ago

and unless the engine is with forced induction, compressor/turbo, it won't change much.

-Lasse

Vote

Charlie E. 17 years ago

AIUI, the output from these systems, due to their inherent inefficiency, is about 70-90% water vapor, and maybe 6-10% hydrogen and oxygen. They look spectacular, because you have all this steam pouring out, and it will burn because the ignition concentration for hydrogen is so low, but most of the 'gain' from these things is the water injection into the cylinders, not the miniscule hydrogen addition...

-- Charlie Edmondson Edmondson Engineering Inc

formatting link

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required