control amps by cathode size

[destroyer125]

I Just ordered a nice power supply and since it has no way of directly controling the amps, only the voltage. I was reading the old ron newman tutorail and he suggested cathode size could control the amperage output directly to the piece

will this work....will this even matter

[acidrain]

Re: control amps by cathode size

Controlling the amps is critical.
The cathode should be at least as big as your largest surface area during your biggest run.
How are you going to set and hold the amps? You're really gonna need a CC power source. Sorry.

[destroyer125]

Re: control amps by cathode size

Im pretty sure the power source I got is CC, Im just wondering how to control the amps....Another annodizer, Rainmaker customs says the power source would work and that it should only draw the amps it needs....not sure if this is the "let r rip" method and wanted the check beforehand

There it is

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=9707573084&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT

[sswee]

Re: control amps by cathode size

A CC/CV PS will have knobs to adjust voltage and current. The method you are describing is CV anodizing. Setting the voltage and letting the current flow as the circuit allows. To use this method you need to titrate your tank so you know and can adjust your aluminum content of your electrolyte and the acid concentration.
SS

[destroyer125]

Re: control amps by cathode size

So the power source I got will only work with CV annodizing? or is there a way I can control the current with the one I have now

[sswee]

Re: control amps by cathode size

If it only has a knob to adjust voltage, it's not CC capable. I haven't talked to anyone who used that type of PS. The only way I can think of is to sit and adjust the voltage manually to maintain the desired current. I don't know if you could use light bulbs to regulate current like you do with a battery.
SS