Question about "loose" powertaps

[demether]

Hi,

I found a big roll of copper hard wire (used for construction work, thick solid wire) in my attic, and I thought that I could use it as a "continue" powertap wire, running inside the artin rails, all around the oval track.

But I don't understand much in electricity theory. So I'm a bit afraid of possible electric arcs (between the rails and copper wire) or shortcuts doing this, since the wire will be running "loosely" inside the rails.

Do you think it's a good idea ?

[chappyman66]

OK, just one guy's opinion.....

I used to have Artin and the joints were great. I had two power taps on 37 feet of running length, and they were the little "stuff the wire in the gap" taps using braided wire (16g or smaller), not even soldered or anything. No issues with arcing or other problems. So I really don't think you could have problems with arcing, because you are only running at 12-14 V. You can still get an arc at that voltage of course, but it almost has to be a dead short across the rails and that's not what would happen when you have them stuffed inside. As long as one point touches, you have a circuit so no arcing at other locations.

Very frankly, I would think that it's more hassle than it's worth because that solid copper is designed to hold a bend once made, and trying to push it through the underside of the rails would be a big PITA (IMHO). Taking all the rails off would be an even bigger pain.

Save the solid copper for construction.....you can use copper tape over the joints if you really want to smooth it out.

[demether]

Thanks for your help. I'll follow your advises.

[vins123]

Hi Dimitri
On my Artin 1/32, i did not have any powertaps at all but i have to say i used 4 transfos 24 volt 1250 ma et i could put any cars(analog) without any problem even Parma with 16d motor, for info i went to HRW review Artin and i followed the instruction with ninco transfos and 45 ohms as a reference, the shorter lane was about 64 foot, Artin has 4 wire so it is easy to make independant lane by using the connector plug, before i made that i tested it with AFX transfos and works well...
Sylvain

[chappyman66]

Yup, as Sylvain points out it's pretty easy to wire a standard 3 contact driver station (e.g. Parma) and have brakes if you want them (especially if you are under there anyway for power taps).