DIY Hot-Wire Power Supply (Vid 2 of 2)

This is video 2 of 2 in my short series showing you how to build your own inexpensive, reliable, and safe power supply for heating the hot-wire for your foam-cutting equipment.

Here is the parts list for items used in this build:

MUST HAVE ITEMS:

From Radio Shack...

Enclosure (8"x6"x3", #270-1809)
Transformer (25.2v, 2 amp, #273-1512B)
Bind Post (#274-661)
Banana Plugs (#274-721)

From Lowes...

Lutron Dimmer Switch (#D-600PH-DK)
Nuts and bolts, or rivets for mounting components

Additionally...

An old AC power cord (2 or 3 prong) with appropriate plug

Optional Parts I Recommend (from Radio Shack)

Fuse Holder (#270-364)
Fuse (250 volt, 2 amp, #270-1023)
120 volt Neon Lamp (#272-0704)

For more information on this project, tune in to TheCrashCast podcast (in iTunes, or at www.TheCrashCast.com), episode #82.

EDIT: A lot of people are sending me emails asking me technical questions about this design. Please note that I am NOT an electrical engineer and my knowledge in this area is quite limited. Following are the links to information that I based my design on:


http://www.instructables.com/id/Hot-w...

http://www.charlesriverrc.org/article...


http://www.utahflyers.org/index.php?o...

Now if you want a power supply with LOTS of power, and have the savvy to build it, then I highly recommend your building one of these:

http://www.nsrca.org/technical/tip_tr...

Here is where you get the best wire to cut foam with - Rene Wire

http://www.skykingrcproducts.com/acce...

I have one of these and use it for all of my wire lengths about 28".

• Category

  • Science & Technology

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