My congratulations on an excellent video! My neighbor and I have been thinking about doing this and yours is by far the best example of what I had in mind for design & safety characteristics. Well done! As a retired high-energy technician, I can appreciate your approach! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks blackdog850 for your compliments. My goal when I made this video was to prevent people with no knowledge, or limited knowledge of electricity from killing themselves. I heard about people being killed doing this, and saw numerous videos where I thought they where taking ridiculous risks. I wanted to show all the safety features I use, and people such as yourself with knowledge of high-energy systems have also recommended improvements on my system. I recommend anyone without adequate knowledge of the science, the risks, or the skills to NOT DO THIS. I would make the same recommendation for flying, skydiving, scuba diving, mountain climbing, and driving cars and motorcycles. If you do not know how to do it safely don’t do it. Of course people still do all these activities and I believe people are going to do this form of Lichtenberg pyrography no matter what I recommend but at least I am showing my system in a hope that those people learn to do it safer. Note that I do not show how to wire the high voltage transformer or any other component. Anyone attempting to do this needs adequate knowledge to build the system. Hopefully my system will inspire them to focus on safety.
Thanks for sharing your video. I also have built several machines used for Fractal Burning projects. I use a lot of pine wood. One tip I learned is you should not over saturate the wood and only brush on and wet it with you solution before using the machines. This in my case has produced much more beautiful and expansive burns especially when you manually adjust the variac as needed while the burn progresses. Great fun for sure.
I am glad you enjoyed the video. I really appreciate your comments and recommendations. My focus was to provide ideas on how to do it safer. I have seen a number of videos where people hold probes and clamps in their hands with limited insulation or safety measures to protect them, which I think is very dangerous. I hadn’t seen any systems that use safety buttons and controls to keep both hands away from the high voltage so I thought I would share my setup. I typically do fractal burning on my wood work and on my wood turning. I have used metal and cloths dampened with the baking soda solution to control the direction of burns. I can really control the fan out of the burn using these methods. I prefer a tighter grain wood like ash, maple, and oak which is what I typically use for my wood turning. I apply the solution sparingly because moisture on wood leads to warping and cracking. I have a UA-cam video of an ash vase that I applied Lichtenberg patterns on, and we have artwork on our website where my wife incorporates the fractals into her paintings, or pyrography. It adds a very unique embellishment to any wood creation. I hope you have lots of fun “safely” creating spectacular fractals.
We are so happy to hear that you liked her art. You can create some very unique art with pyrography. I had to check our website to see the artwork you were referring to. She has other creations that I still have to frame and get on the site. The one you are referring to is called Flying Low and the pyrography includes both wood burning and Lichtenberg patterns. I will be doing more Lichtenberg burning once winter is over and we get rid of the snow and I can get outside. I prefer to do it outside because of the smoke. She can then paint them. She is looking forward to me burning more dragonfly’s and other items.
I have wanted to try this for a few years ( my neighbor used to do this) .He was always going to show me how but life seems to get in the way of the fun stuff. I have moved away and I do not know what equipment he used. I have been researching this more and more lately and this is the best setup I've seen so far. I'm no safety nazi by any stretch of the imagination but I have been working with electricity sense 1977 and I know the shit will kill you so quick it's not funny. I have crawled inside 3000 amp switch gear ,and this makes me nervous. ALL the redundant features you have are. Greatly needed. I like the momentary button. At the Risk of sounding like someone's overbearing mommy. There is NO overkill when making or using this. It looks cool but don't be known for being the dumb ass that fryed himself because your too cool not to take it seriously. Thanks for making this for all uf us that are interested in this really cool art. There is so many way it can be used.
Thanks for the feedback. If you have worked with 3000 amp switch gear you could probably make a few recommendations to improve my system. I realize I could use better wire and actual conduit rather than plastic pipe for my high voltage leads, but I keep my distance and air is a relatively good insulator. I’m not ready to start working in a Faraday cage or suit. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage I have worked in industrial plants where equipment uses two control switches that have to be pressed simultaneously, one with each hand. That way the operator can’t accidentally get their hand caught in the machine. That was what I was aiming for by keeping both hands busy. One on the primary power button and the second on the variac controlling the voltage. Keeping a safe distance from the high voltage side was also a priority. The other safety features are to prevent people without knowledge of the system from accidentally powering it up. I could have hardwired the high voltage transformer to the output from the variac, but that made it difficult for me to store the system. Since milliamps can kill working with 3000 amps is really scary.
I’m too chicken to get into this hobby but I just have to say, wow lol amazing setup and considerations. Your thorough explanation of everything is something you don’t see too often 👍
My goal was to inspire people who intend to try this, or are doing this, to do it as safely as possible. It is very dangerous if you are not familiar with electricity and safety procedures. I would strongly recommend NOT attempting this if you do not have sufficient knowledge, training, and experience. I have over 30 years of experience in electronics, aerospace, and computers. I have worked with teams to design medical and aerospace devices incorporating multiple safety features, and I have worked with an assortment of industrial equipment. I am sure others could improve on some of my methods to make it even safer. According to the American Association of Woodturners there have been a number of fatalities burning Lichtenberg patterns which inspired me to create a video on how I do it to make it safer for myself. Hopefully anyone trying this will get ideas on how to do it safer.
I tell people who want to get started working with electricity and power tools: if you aren't worried you'll hurt yourself, don't do it. You =should= be thinking about safety, you =should= be thinking about how you might get hurt. The most dangerous bits of a tablesaw are invisible when on, the most dangerous part about electricity is that it is completely silent and invisible. So if you never feel safe enough to try it, you still have the right attitude.
This is incredible. I also came here after watching Ann Reardon's video, which made it sound terrifying and impossible to do safely. But the difference between the "hack" setups and your professional set up is night and day. Of course it's dangerous; plenty of magnificent things in this world ARE. That's why they should be undertaken by professionals with proper equipment and precautions. Imagine telling people never to dive in the ocean because so many others have died there before. Your set up is brilliant and your art is beautiful. And lot of people could learn from this video. Bad ass 🤘
naw. are you familiar with “nailed it,” where people try to make a fancy cake but it sucks which is always funny. This is like that except the “nailed it” is a visit to the morgue. Stakes are too high and you can’t expect people will ever be this thoughtful. Also looks like pubes.
I have seen lots of videos online where there are no safety features at all. I am also aware that there have been many deaths associated with this practice. My focus for this video was only on the “safety features I use”. I do not show how to do any of the wiring so if you do not understand electricity or have the skills to implement these features DON’T DO THIS ACTIVITY! I have a lifetime of training and experience working in aerospace, electrical/electronics, and computers. What I am trying to do in this video is to share “the safety methods I use”. My intention has never been to encourage anyone to do this, but if you do this activity, please make safety your #1 priority. I agree that there are lots of dangerous activities. Flying an airplane, driving a car or motorcycle, scuba diving, putting up radio towers, shingling a roof, and the list goes on and on and I wouldn’t recommend attempting any of these activities if you didn’t have the knowledge and skills to do them safely. I would never say you shouldn’t do them because they are dangerous. These are activities done every day, but the people doing them have the knowledge and skill to do them with an acceptable level of safety which they learned from other people. Thanks for the compliment about our art. I consider my wife the artist and I am more of the technician. We compliment each other’s skills and work well together.
You have went much farther towards safety than most. Some suggestions. Did not know by your video the voltage wire class of the high voltage wire going from transformer to probe. Is wire rated for 2500 volts? Also the electrical gloves needs to be at least a class 1 rating for that voltage level. But Deadman switch, like you built-in, is a must that most do not have and I see some not using any electrical gloves which is foolish in my opinion. Good video.
Thanks for the great suggestions. I try to keep my wires well separated and I am always at a safe distance from them whenever the power is applied. I made use of what I had available and I am not sure what the wire insulation is rated for. When I am near the probes the power is always off, and the system is unplugged. I hold the wooden boards to move the probes and I only move them when there is no power being applied. I never get near the probes if there is power on the system. I have seen a number of videos of people using their home made and even commercially manufactured systems holding the probes in their hands. No gloves, no safety devices, and often holding the insulation on battery booster cable style of clamps. In my opinion they are deadly accidents waiting to happen. I made this video of my system because of information I discovered from the AAW (American Association of Woodturner) of how many people were dying using these systems. I wanted to show my safety features hoping that people that are doing this, or plan to do this, do it safer. Air is a great insulator which is why I am always far away from the danger zone.
Hi, this is Richard again. I was wondering if you got my comment of asking for the info (part #'s) on the variac, momentary switch, contactor, & microwave transformer? I would like to build this system and want to do it correctly like you did. Are you still out their doing this?
Thanks for the comment. I created this video because according to the American Association of Woodturners there have been numerous deaths associated with this practice. A number of videos I came across showed how to wire the transformer... which I didn’t show, but none of the videos showed any safety features. I made this video hoping people doing this would learn safer ways than what I saw in other videos.
@@liz-artcreations6633 Your intent is pure, but you are foolish to think that giving safety tips will help, even trained electricians have died. The only safe practice is to stop. By implying that this can be done safely you are part of the problem. I would suggest you destroy your equipment and make a video explaining you are done and that NO ONE can do this safely.
Most people should stay away from this art as they don't understand the dangers truly. The high voltage from the transformer can be up to 3,000 Volts and your high voltage wires seem to be improper insulated for such high voltage. Also, I would recommend two push buttons such that no hand will ever be free to mess around with the setup while the voltage is on. Of course it's obvious to never have anyone else near the setup while it's being operated. I like the special power connector that avoids stupid accidents by anyone messing with the cabling.
Hi, what a great system !! Would you give me a little more info on your components? Such as model and ser. # 's for: Variac, Momentary switch, Contactor, & the Microwave transformer? I would very much appreciate it. Thanks, Richard
It probably doesn't make sense to clean the electrodes, but it wouldn't hurt to put a fan to cool the high -voltage transformer and a thermorel on its body. It is desirable to install an indicator lamp that indicates that the primary winding of a high-voltage transformer is energized .I liked the pictures!
opt57-ru Thanks for the suggestions. I do have a light on the switch on the transformer, but the reality is I never really notice it. I rarely run the transformer at full power and it is for short periods of time. Much shorter than I typically run a microwave which is where I got the transformer. I will have to check to see how hot it is getting with my laser thermometer the next time I am doing any burns. There are times that it seems difficult to get a burn started. I couldn’t say if it was due to residue on the electrodes or due to insufficient or poor quality baking soda solution. I clean the electrodes just to eliminate that potential issue. My wife’s artwork amazes me. She is artistic and I am technical. When she starts a painting I can never picture what she sees but the finished product amazes me. Thanks again. I appreciate your observations and feedback.
@@liz-artcreations6633 To understand how to start burning quickly, you need to study the mechanism of arcing, spark discharge on the surface of the wood. The current flows along the path of least resistance and if the surface of the wood has not had time to absorb a sufficient amount of electrolyte and the surface is covered with a layer of liquid electrolyte (electrolyte puddles) - then a spark discharge occurs over the surface of the liquid and this electrolyte is sprayed from the "puddle", the space around the electrode is drained. It is necessary to allow time for the electrolyte to soak into the porous surface of the tree (not ) and remove the excess electrolyte from the Board. The solution of baking soda should be as saturated as possible (at the bottom of the vessel should remain insoluble soda crystals).It is desirable to start the burning process by applying no more than 50 volts to the high-voltage transformer and increasing the voltage after the arc front occurs. I hope that the automatic translation will be done correctly. Yes, your wife's paintings are creative and she clearly has a high talent.
Your attention to safety is impressive. What could be a potentially dangerous project is not so scary watching you. Kudos. I'm not sure what voltage you are dealing with but when I worked for the power company we had 5KV and 30KV gloves. You might want to try to source these to add a layer of safety. Also nomex clothing would be good. Also keep your feet together .Again, well done!
The transformer produces about 2000 volts . Thanks for the suggestions. I really appreciate when experts such as yourself contribute advice to make this even safer.
From what I've gathered from my limited internet exposure to this idea, this is at least a way to do this technique without unnecessary risks. Don't "hack" electricity. Take the time to do it right.
I have seen a number of references in woodworking forums about people who have lost their lives doing this. I am hoping that the safety precautions that I use will inspire others to look at their setups and inspire them to add appropriate precautions so they do this as safely as possible. I want people to “Have fun, be safe, and create a remarkable treasure”. If you do not know how to do this safely then I would recommend not attempt this.
If the tips made contact it would be like any other direct short in an electrical circuit. It would generate a tremendous amount of current and heat and likely melt the wires. Ohms law states that current (I) = voltage (V) / Resistance (R). Current is equal to voltage divided by resistance. Since I=V/R if R = 0 (a short circuit) the current is infinite so even a small voltage will generate a tremendous amount of current and heat. It would be the equivalent to arc welding but without a focused melting point, and arc welding melts steel. I would never apply power to any electrical circuit when there is a direct short. I have seen the results on screwdrivers where this occurred. The streams making contact during the burn process happen regularly and are sometimes desirable. When the streams make contact it causes a deeper burn. The deep burn happens quickly so you don’t need to let it burn very long once the streams connect. A deep burn works well when applying coloured resin in the burned areas.
Nice box, not good enough. I appreciate you are away from the burn. But your 8 gauge wire is not high voltage rated, (probably only 240VAC), and I really would rather you have a double pushbutton system so both of your hands are tied up in pushing two buttons, and preset the Variac before you turn anything on. Lastly, those gloves, are they rated for 12KV? If not, get some. And poly pipe has no rating, save it will keep water in. I am a military trained electrician, (21 years, retired), and spent 30 years in factories, as a electrical maintenance manager and an industrial engineer. I got into this hobby about five years ago, and had a similar setup, save I elevated my platform off the bench with two glued on 2X4's. After time, you get a bit lazy...then maybe cut a few corners. We all say we won't, BUT WE ALL DO. I recently got into fractal burning guitars, and one late afternoon, a bit tired, didn't realize it was still on and touched one probe. The other one literally jumped into my other hand, as the hand was touching the edge of the guitar body. I "Rode the Lightning" for about two seconds until I fell on my right side, heavily bruising my shoulder and hitting my head on the floor. When I hit, I woke up, got up and went into the house and had my wife call 911. Heartrate was 160, and I ended up in a burn center for three days as they monitored my heart, and treated the burns on my hands, which were not that bad. Huge hematoma on my forehead, and a scalp cut on my head where I scraped on a bench nearby. NOT FUN, NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCES.... Changes I will make: 1. Add two momentary on switches to the incoming 120VAC in a plastic housing. Both have to be pressed to engage the unit. No 120VAC, no burn. Two switches, two hands. 2. My potentiometer, which I use to adjust the voltage, will be next, in a straight line away from me. Adjust before I can press both buttons, which are UL approved to be Open when released. 3. The actual unit on its platform, further away down the line. 4. The probes, with 10K insulated wire, extending to a separate wooden table. 5. Finally, 12K gloves, 1.8MM thick, in case the switches, and the potentiometer all fail and it stays lit. 6. I am standing on 3/4" insulated rubber flooring, the final table will not be on the same rubber. Sound like a lot? 6000VAC is a lot! I am lucky to be writing this, but this is what I should have done in the first place. Lichtenberg is like nothing else in beauty, and it is highly, highly dangerous. I see people using regular wire, no gloves, machine very near to the work, and I think, there is number 34, waiting to die.... Stay safe.
Sorry to hear about your accident. I hope you’re ok. You said you have a similar setup to mine. If so, were you holding the power button while moving the probes? I never do that. I always turn the power off on the variac and release the power button before I even get close to the high voltage area. I like to control my burn process with the variac which is why I only have the one push button. I work on separate plastic benches which are both on 1” thick rubber mats and I am standing on the mat for the low voltage section. Normally the benches are separated but I had them close together for the video to show the overall components. The low voltage components are on one bench and the high voltage components are on the other so I maintain my distance from the high voltage components. I can’t move the probes while the buttons are pushed, so there is no power to the system, because they are out of reach. I also never allow anyone to be close to the system before I start burning. Normally I am alone and I have my system set up outside when I do this. This way I am not breathing smoke from the burn. Thanks for recommending improvements to my system. Good luck with your future burning and be safe.
No. The second I remove my finger from the master power button there is no power anywhere in the system. I keep a safe distance from the actual burning while the power is applied. I would never apply the solution while the power is on even if I could. It would be extremely dangerous. There is really no reason to do that. If you don’t move the probes and then apply the solution WHILE THE POWER IS OFF and then turn on the power it will continue to burn from where you had stopped.
The reason is to enhance safety. A standard 15 amp plug, which is what is on the microwave, will plug into any wall outlet (in North America). The 20 amp plug uses a different configuration that will not plug into standard outlets typically found in houses. The 20 amp plug prevents someone from plugging the high voltage transformer directly into an outlet in a house where it would be generating full power at the high voltage probes. I know you could hardwire the transformer into the outlet box but by using the plug you can add one more safety precaution by unplugging it.
I missed something in my original reply. On a number of plugs there are holes in the ends of each prong. You can put a small lock or a bolt and nut through the holes which adds even more safety since it eliminates the risk of it being plugged in.
A t precisely 7:15 there is an aberrant behavior which indicates you very likely have a leakage current. It may be possible the path merely surfaces at that point. Still, on the transformer, is the secondary in any way at all connected to earth ground, OR, is one secondary lead connected to the transformer frame? Otherwise though, this is one of only three videos on UA-cam which has a degree of merit. I must say though, we have a way to go to make the lichtenburg technique as safe as a table saw. 😉
There is definitely leakage current. Because I am using plywood the current has a tendency to follow glue joints. I prefer to use solid wood. The leakage current is why I use plastic matts, plastic tables, and have everything on rubber matts. To isolate myself as much as possible. I haven't used my Lichtenberg system for a while so I am not sure about the frame grounding. I will check that out. Thanks for the tip. I will be making the cord longer that runs between the controls and the transformer so I can isolate myself further by using separate tables and use separate rubber matts. One for the high voltage side and another that I stand on for the control side. I will then earth ground the high voltage side. The control side is already grounded. Great suggestion. Thanks.
@@liz-artcreations6633NO, DO NOT earth ground the high voltage side! I DID NOT IN ANY WAY SAY THE HIGH VOLTAGE SIDE SHOULD BE GROUNDED. This is extremely unsafe and creates many more current pathways which can easily become lethal. This is very likely the problem you have now, and the source of your leakage. Both high voltage leads should float free from earth ground and be expertly insulated from the transformer terminals to the probe tips. Also, the two table idea trades some risk off for others.
Your original comment got me to thinking about the possibility of using a GFI method of shutting off the power if there was any leakage current to ground on the high voltage side. I will have to look into that.
@@liz-artcreations6633I can tell you this is not an easy task, as I have designed current monitoring systems for 30kV capillary electrophoresis systems. I won't get into the wonderful geekey details, but you are indeed thinking in a good way here. AND, I am pleased to hear you are seeing the difference between this sort of system on the secondary, vs. the primary. Most UA-camrs totally miss that. KUDOS! That is exactly what needs to be done, BUT, BUT, BUT, we need a design specification, specifically, an allowable error in differential current, how much and for how long. This will be intimately related to an estimate of a human to survive a certain current for a certain time, which is very difficult data to obtain. Ultimately, to do the background calculations, one has to put a price on human life! So, I have an alternative idea, perhaps to focus on isolation, and the robustness of isolation. I will make a design proposal fairly soon. For now, if possible, just leave it in the closet? Having thought this through more, I am starting to see a machine which is as safe as a chainsaw or table-saw.
1) You need to use high voltage insulated wires on the HV side of the transformer. 2) A “system hot” light or buzzer is a good reminder 3) Info that the transformer should not be grounded on the supply side would be good. 3) Better HV probe insulation would be good, it will jump through that thin plastic pipe. 4) Your unrated thin rubber gloves are better than nothing, but could be a false sense security.
These are all EXCELLENT recommendations on how to improve this system. I made use of what I had available and my primary objective was to eliminate the risk of power ever being applied when working at the potentially "hot" end, and to isolate myself as best as possible while it is live. Primarily by staying well back from the high voltage, or any voltage for that matter while the system was working. Thanks for the recommendations and I hope they help others stay safe.
Thanks. I wanted to encourage people that considered doing this to do it as safely as possible. It is very dangerous if you do not know what you are doing.
you know most people who watch this video won’t understand what the point or all the safety measures, skip it. Like next you should do a diy convert a lawnmower into a small helicopter.
That may be true which is why I don’t tell or show how to do the actual wiring, but for those that are going to do this anyway, they will require some knowledge of electricity and wiring. Hopefully they recognize and understand each of the safety features I use. I have a background in aerospace. I never thought about using a lawnmower engine for a helicopter. It got me wondering if it could be used for a gyrocopter. 🙂
The PBNO is critical, the one on the Variac is built in, and the only reason I put one on the high voltage transformer is because it isn't hardwired into the outlet box which make the system more portable. I happen to have one plug in my shop with a 120v 20A receptacle, so the switch adds a little more safety for my situation.
Sorry to hear about your brother, but this is exactly why I made this video. I heard about people getting killed doing this and I saw numerous videos that I thought were extremely dangerous. My focus is on safety. I don’t show how to build the system, but I show all of the methods I use to make my system safer. People will make these systems with no knowledge of electricity or safety. My video focuses only on safety. This is not a low risk activity and if you don’t know what you are doing DON’T DO IT. Neither is sky diving, scuba diving, auto racing, or mountain climbing, but people still do it. I created this video to show all of my safety features to save lives because there are people who will do this no matter what they are told.
UA-cam is starting to take down some of these videos if enough people flag them as "dangerous or harmful acts" one thing we can do to help prevent more deaths is to flag as many videos as possible. I am so sorry for your loss.
@mafurock33 Yeah. Let's remove educational videos about safety so people keep hacking microwave transformers without any safety measures at all and die. While you're at it, flag videos advocating for safe driving, proper climbing safety, power tool handling, s**-ed and other safety related content.
a lot of effort but I think you have a false sense of security in this set up. The problem I see is that the burning voltage typically 2-4000 volts is NOT going to be reliably contained by the insulating materials and switch components you have there. The extreme high tension is looking for ground and the slightest path to ground will be found, this includes the leads from you high power transformer and the wiring connecting the variable transformer and control switch, table tops and work surfaces that have conductive capability. Bottom line is that I do not think this setup is fail safe to prevent high voltage migration back to the low voltage components and ultimately the operator. The very best operational model would be a remote, non conductive switch actuator...no manual. A total power down is essential for any and all component adjustments including the variable transformer...set it on a dead system then power up when the operator is removed from the device a good distance.
I always appreciate suggestions for improvement. Please send me a link to your setup? I am sure others would be grateful to see your improvements. I made use of what I had available. I work on a silicone rubber mat on a plastic sawhorses, and the entire system including myself are on a 1 inch thick rubber mat. I could improve my system by using better leads with a higher rating and actual plastic conduit but I am not near the leads, wood, or probes when the system is powered up. I could use better gloves but there is no power on when I am working with the probes because of the master push button switch. All of the components I make contact with while the system is operating are correctly rated for voltage and current. If isolation is a concern the cord on the high voltage transformer could be made longer and then the controlling components could be on one table and the high voltage transformer with the leads and wood being burned could be on a different table. Hopefully these suggestions makes everyone’s system better.
I came here after watching Ann Reardon’s video on the “how to cook that” channel on how this is killing people and the horrific injuries resulting from this…… don’t do it.
Same. After finishing her video I just Googled if there was any safe way to do it. I assumed there was actual equipment and that any danger would come from the fact that people are putting together their own janky machines.
I agree 100% that if you don’t know what you are doing or how to do it safely, don’t do it! I made this video after discovering through the AAW (American Association of Woodturners) that a number of people were dying doing this. That is why I created this video. To show all of the safety features I have incorporated into “my system” hoping that others doing this will add safety features as well. I do not show how to do the wiring of any of the components, so in order to build my system you have to have knowledge of electrical wiring and an understanding of electricity. If you intend to do this you should have that knowledge and skill before you even considering doing this. I did this video to save lives, not to teach them how to build dangerous systems. I focused solely on safety. I have seen numerous videos of systems, some even professionally manufactured, that do not cover or incorporate anywhere close to the number of safety features I use. I have worked in electrical and electronics my whole life and I hope that sharing the knowledge and experience I included in my system will help others to consider many options to add safety features to their systems. I am not condoning or promoting this method, but there are people that will do this no matter what they are told. I am only providing information about my system and all the safety features I have incorporated. If you do not know how to do this safely DON’T DO IT!
My congratulations on an excellent video! My neighbor and I have been thinking about doing this and yours is by far the best example of what I had in mind for design & safety characteristics. Well done! As a retired high-energy technician, I can appreciate your approach! Thanks for sharing!
Don't do it, even expert electricians have died trying this. Even if you take all the precautions, it's still too dangerous and it's not worth it
Thanks blackdog850 for your compliments. My goal when I made this video was to prevent people with no knowledge, or limited knowledge of electricity from killing themselves. I heard about people being killed doing this, and saw numerous videos where I thought they where taking ridiculous risks. I wanted to show all the safety features I use, and people such as yourself with knowledge of high-energy systems have also recommended improvements on my system. I recommend anyone without adequate knowledge of the science, the risks, or the skills to NOT DO THIS. I would make the same recommendation for flying, skydiving, scuba diving, mountain climbing, and driving cars and motorcycles. If you do not know how to do it safely don’t do it. Of course people still do all these activities and I believe people are going to do this form of Lichtenberg pyrography no matter what I recommend but at least I am showing my system in a hope that those people learn to do it safer.
Note that I do not show how to wire the high voltage transformer or any other component. Anyone attempting to do this needs adequate knowledge to build the system. Hopefully my system will inspire them to focus on safety.
Thanks for sharing your video. I also have built several machines used for Fractal Burning projects. I use a lot of pine wood. One tip I learned is you should not over saturate the wood and only brush on and wet it with you solution before using the machines. This in my case has produced much more beautiful and expansive burns especially when you manually adjust the variac as needed while the burn progresses. Great fun for sure.
I am glad you enjoyed the video. I really appreciate your comments and recommendations. My focus was to provide ideas on how to do it safer. I have seen a number of videos where people hold probes and clamps in their hands with limited insulation or safety measures to protect them, which I think is very dangerous. I hadn’t seen any systems that use safety buttons and controls to keep both hands away from the high voltage so I thought I would share my setup.
I typically do fractal burning on my wood work and on my wood turning. I have used metal and cloths dampened with the baking soda solution to control the direction of burns. I can really control the fan out of the burn using these methods. I prefer a tighter grain wood like ash, maple, and oak which is what I typically use for my wood turning. I apply the solution sparingly because moisture on wood leads to warping and cracking. I have a UA-cam video of an ash vase that I applied Lichtenberg patterns on, and we have artwork on our website where my wife incorporates the fractals into her paintings, or pyrography. It adds a very unique embellishment to any wood creation.
I hope you have lots of fun “safely” creating spectacular fractals.
I love pyrography and your wife’s Japanese sunrise painting is stunning
We are so happy to hear that you liked her art. You can create some very unique art with pyrography. I had to check our website to see the artwork you were referring to. She has other creations that I still have to frame and get on the site. The one you are referring to is called Flying Low and the pyrography includes both wood burning and Lichtenberg patterns. I will be doing more Lichtenberg burning once winter is over and we get rid of the snow and I can get outside. I prefer to do it outside because of the smoke. She can then paint them. She is looking forward to me burning more dragonfly’s and other items.
I have wanted to try this for a few years ( my neighbor used to do this) .He was always going to show me how but life seems to get in the way of the fun stuff. I have moved away and I do not know what equipment he used. I have been researching this more and more lately and this is the best setup I've seen so far. I'm no safety nazi by any stretch of the imagination but I have been working with electricity sense 1977 and I know the shit will kill you so quick it's not funny. I have crawled inside 3000 amp switch gear ,and this makes me nervous. ALL the redundant features you have are. Greatly needed. I like the momentary button. At the Risk of sounding like someone's overbearing mommy. There is NO overkill when making or using this. It looks cool but don't be known for being the dumb ass that fryed himself because your too cool not to take it seriously.
Thanks for making this for all uf us that are interested in this really cool art. There is so many way it can be used.
Thanks for the feedback. If you have worked with 3000 amp switch gear you could probably make a few recommendations to improve my system. I realize I could use better wire and actual conduit rather than plastic pipe for my high voltage leads, but I keep my distance and air is a relatively good insulator. I’m not ready to start working in a Faraday cage or suit.
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage
I have worked in industrial plants where equipment uses two control switches that have to be pressed simultaneously, one with each hand. That way the operator can’t accidentally get their hand caught in the machine. That was what I was aiming for by keeping both hands busy. One on the primary power button and the second on the variac controlling the voltage. Keeping a safe distance from the high voltage side was also a priority. The other safety features are to prevent people without knowledge of the system from accidentally powering it up. I could have hardwired the high voltage transformer to the output from the variac, but that made it difficult for me to store the system.
Since milliamps can kill working with 3000 amps is really scary.
I’m too chicken to get into this hobby but I just have to say, wow lol amazing setup and considerations. Your thorough explanation of everything is something you don’t see too often 👍
My goal was to inspire people who intend to try this, or are doing this, to do it as safely as possible. It is very dangerous if you are not familiar with electricity and safety procedures. I would strongly recommend NOT attempting this if you do not have sufficient knowledge, training, and experience. I have over 30 years of experience in electronics, aerospace, and computers. I have worked with teams to design medical and aerospace devices incorporating multiple safety features, and I have worked with an assortment of industrial equipment. I am sure others could improve on some of my methods to make it even safer. According to the American Association of Woodturners there have been a number of fatalities burning Lichtenberg patterns which inspired me to create a video on how I do it to make it safer for myself. Hopefully anyone trying this will get ideas on how to do it safer.
I tell people who want to get started working with electricity and power tools: if you aren't worried you'll hurt yourself, don't do it. You =should= be thinking about safety, you =should= be thinking about how you might get hurt. The most dangerous bits of a tablesaw are invisible when on, the most dangerous part about electricity is that it is completely silent and invisible.
So if you never feel safe enough to try it, you still have the right attitude.
This is incredible. I also came here after watching Ann Reardon's video, which made it sound terrifying and impossible to do safely. But the difference between the "hack" setups and your professional set up is night and day.
Of course it's dangerous; plenty of magnificent things in this world ARE. That's why they should be undertaken by professionals with proper equipment and precautions. Imagine telling people never to dive in the ocean because so many others have died there before.
Your set up is brilliant and your art is beautiful. And lot of people could learn from this video. Bad ass 🤘
naw. are you familiar with “nailed it,” where people try to make a fancy cake but it sucks which is always funny. This is like that except the “nailed it” is a visit to the morgue. Stakes are too high and you can’t expect people will ever be this thoughtful. Also looks like pubes.
I have seen lots of videos online where there are no safety features at all. I am also aware that there have been many deaths associated with this practice. My focus for this video was only on the “safety features I use”. I do not show how to do any of the wiring so if you do not understand electricity or have the skills to implement these features DON’T DO THIS ACTIVITY! I have a lifetime of training and experience working in aerospace, electrical/electronics, and computers. What I am trying to do in this video is to share “the safety methods I use”. My intention has never been to encourage anyone to do this, but if you do this activity, please make safety your #1 priority.
I agree that there are lots of dangerous activities. Flying an airplane, driving a car or motorcycle, scuba diving, putting up radio towers, shingling a roof, and the list goes on and on and I wouldn’t recommend attempting any of these activities if you didn’t have the knowledge and skills to do them safely. I would never say you shouldn’t do them because they are dangerous. These are activities done every day, but the people doing them have the knowledge and skill to do them with an acceptable level of safety which they learned from other people.
Thanks for the compliment about our art. I consider my wife the artist and I am more of the technician. We compliment each other’s skills and work well together.
People are probably going to do this no matter what they are told. I am only trying to promote safety 1st!
You have went much farther towards safety than most. Some suggestions. Did not know by your video the voltage wire class of the high voltage wire going from transformer to probe. Is wire rated for 2500 volts? Also the electrical gloves needs to be at least a class 1 rating for that voltage level.
But Deadman switch, like you built-in, is a must that most do not have and I see some not using any electrical gloves which is foolish in my opinion. Good video.
Thanks for the great suggestions. I try to keep my wires well separated and I am always at a safe distance from them whenever the power is applied. I made use of what I had available and I am not sure what the wire insulation is rated for. When I am near the probes the power is always off, and the system is unplugged. I hold the wooden boards to move the probes and I only move them when there is no power being applied. I never get near the probes if there is power on the system.
I have seen a number of videos of people using their home made and even commercially manufactured systems holding the probes in their hands. No gloves, no safety devices, and often holding the insulation on battery booster cable style of clamps. In my opinion they are deadly accidents waiting to happen. I made this video of my system because of information I discovered from the AAW (American Association of Woodturner) of how many people were dying using these systems. I wanted to show my safety features hoping that people that are doing this, or plan to do this, do it safer. Air is a great insulator which is why I am always far away from the danger zone.
Hi, this is Richard again. I was wondering if you got my comment of asking for the info (part #'s) on the variac, momentary switch, contactor, & microwave transformer? I would like to build this system and want to do it correctly like you did. Are you still out their doing this?
Thats a damn good rig you got there :D
Looks like youve got your safety and procedure down pat 🙌
Thanks for the comment. I created this video because according to the American Association of Woodturners there have been numerous deaths associated with this practice. A number of videos I came across showed how to wire the transformer... which I didn’t show, but none of the videos showed any safety features. I made this video hoping people doing this would learn safer ways than what I saw in other videos.
@@liz-artcreations6633 Your intent is pure, but you are foolish to think that giving safety tips will help, even trained electricians have died. The only safe practice is to stop. By implying that this can be done safely you are part of the problem. I would suggest you destroy your equipment and make a video explaining you are done and that NO ONE can do this safely.
Most people should stay away from this art as they don't understand the dangers truly. The high voltage from the transformer can be up to 3,000 Volts and your high voltage wires seem to be improper insulated for such high voltage. Also, I would recommend two push buttons such that no hand will ever be free to mess around with the setup while the voltage is on. Of course it's obvious to never have anyone else near the setup while it's being operated. I like the special power connector that avoids stupid accidents by anyone messing with the cabling.
Hi, what a great system !! Would you give me a little more info on your components? Such as model and ser. # 's for: Variac, Momentary switch, Contactor, & the Microwave transformer? I would very much appreciate it. Thanks, Richard
Supper good video,I will make use of your safety info
It probably doesn't make sense to clean the electrodes, but it wouldn't hurt to put a fan to cool the high -voltage transformer and a thermorel on its body. It is desirable to install an indicator lamp that indicates that the primary winding of a high-voltage transformer is energized .I liked the pictures!
opt57-ru Thanks for the suggestions. I do have a light on the switch on the transformer, but the reality is I never really notice it. I rarely run the transformer at full power and it is for short periods of time. Much shorter than I typically run a microwave which is where I got the transformer. I will have to check to see how hot it is getting with my laser thermometer the next time I am doing any burns. There are times that it seems difficult to get a burn started. I couldn’t say if it was due to residue on the electrodes or due to insufficient or poor quality baking soda solution. I clean the electrodes just to eliminate that potential issue. My wife’s artwork amazes me. She is artistic and I am technical. When she starts a painting I can never picture what she sees but the finished product amazes me. Thanks again. I appreciate your observations and feedback.
@@liz-artcreations6633 To understand how to start burning quickly, you need to study the mechanism of arcing, spark discharge on the surface of the wood. The current flows along the path of least resistance and if the surface of the wood has not had time to absorb a sufficient amount of electrolyte and the surface is covered with a layer of liquid electrolyte (electrolyte puddles) - then a spark discharge occurs over the surface of the liquid and this electrolyte is sprayed from the "puddle", the space around the electrode is drained. It is necessary to allow time for the electrolyte to soak into the porous surface of the tree (not ) and remove the excess electrolyte from the Board. The solution of baking soda should be as saturated as possible (at the bottom of the vessel should remain insoluble soda crystals).It is desirable to start the burning process by applying no more than 50 volts to the high-voltage transformer and increasing the voltage after the arc front occurs. I hope that the automatic translation will be done correctly. Yes, your wife's paintings are creative and she clearly has a high talent.
Very cool. Neat video and craft.
Best safety video and set up seen so far. What model of Variac transformer are you using? Amps? Thanks.
TDGC-2KM. Max 2000va
Your attention to safety is impressive. What could be a potentially dangerous project is not so scary watching you. Kudos. I'm not sure what voltage you are dealing with but when I worked for the power company we had 5KV and 30KV gloves. You might want to try to source these to add a layer of safety. Also nomex clothing would be good. Also keep your feet together .Again, well done!
The transformer produces about 2000 volts . Thanks for the suggestions. I really appreciate when experts such as yourself contribute advice to make this even safer.
From what I've gathered from my limited internet exposure to this idea, this is at least a way to do this technique without unnecessary risks. Don't "hack" electricity. Take the time to do it right.
There’s a little mad scientist in all of us, but remember folks, its clear that a lot of thought is put into being safe. :)
I have seen a number of references in woodworking forums about people who have lost their lives doing this. I am hoping that the safety precautions that I use will inspire others to look at their setups and inspire them to add appropriate precautions so they do this as safely as possible. I want people to “Have fun, be safe, and create a remarkable treasure”. If you do not know how to do this safely then I would recommend not attempt this.
What happens if the two tips made contact or their streams made contact with the power on?
If the tips made contact it would be like any other direct short in an electrical circuit. It would generate a tremendous amount of current and heat and likely melt the wires.
Ohms law states that current (I) = voltage (V) / Resistance (R). Current is equal to voltage divided by resistance.
Since I=V/R if R = 0 (a short circuit) the current is infinite so even a small voltage will generate a tremendous amount of current and heat. It would be the equivalent to arc welding but without a focused melting point, and arc welding melts steel. I would never apply power to any electrical circuit when there is a direct short. I have seen the results on screwdrivers where this occurred.
The streams making contact during the burn process happen regularly and are sometimes desirable. When the streams make contact it causes a deeper burn. The deep burn happens quickly so you don’t need to let it burn very long once the streams connect. A deep burn works well when applying coloured resin in the burned areas.
Nice box, not good enough. I appreciate you are away from the burn. But your 8 gauge wire is not high voltage rated, (probably only 240VAC), and I really would rather you have a double pushbutton system so both of your hands are tied up in pushing two buttons, and preset the Variac before you turn anything on.
Lastly, those gloves, are they rated for 12KV? If not, get some. And poly pipe has no rating, save it will keep water in.
I am a military trained electrician, (21 years, retired), and spent 30 years in factories, as a electrical maintenance manager and an industrial engineer.
I got into this hobby about five years ago, and had a similar setup, save I elevated my platform off the bench with two glued on 2X4's. After time, you get a bit lazy...then maybe cut a few corners. We all say we won't, BUT WE ALL DO. I recently got into fractal burning guitars, and one late afternoon, a bit tired, didn't realize it was still on and touched one probe. The other one literally jumped into my other hand, as the hand was touching the edge of the guitar body. I "Rode the Lightning" for about two seconds until I fell on my right side, heavily bruising my shoulder and hitting my head on the floor. When I hit, I woke up, got up and went into the house and had my wife call 911. Heartrate was 160, and I ended up in a burn center for three days as they monitored my heart, and treated the burns on my hands, which were not that bad. Huge hematoma on my forehead, and a scalp cut on my head where I scraped on a bench nearby. NOT FUN, NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCES....
Changes I will make:
1. Add two momentary on switches to the incoming 120VAC in a plastic housing. Both have to be pressed to engage the unit. No 120VAC, no burn. Two switches, two hands.
2. My potentiometer, which I use to adjust the voltage, will be next, in a straight line away from me. Adjust before I can press both buttons, which are UL approved to be Open when released.
3. The actual unit on its platform, further away down the line.
4. The probes, with 10K insulated wire, extending to a separate wooden table.
5. Finally, 12K gloves, 1.8MM thick, in case the switches, and the potentiometer all fail and it stays lit.
6. I am standing on 3/4" insulated rubber flooring, the final table will not be on the same rubber.
Sound like a lot? 6000VAC is a lot! I am lucky to be writing this, but this is what I should have done in the first place.
Lichtenberg is like nothing else in beauty, and it is highly, highly dangerous. I see people using regular wire, no gloves, machine very near to the work, and I think, there is number 34, waiting to die....
Stay safe.
Sorry to hear about your accident. I hope you’re ok. You said you have a similar setup to mine. If so, were you holding the power button while moving the probes? I never do that. I always turn the power off on the variac and release the power button before I even get close to the high voltage area. I like to control my burn process with the variac which is why I only have the one push button.
I work on separate plastic benches which are both on 1” thick rubber mats and I am standing on the mat for the low voltage section. Normally the benches are separated but I had them close together for the video to show the overall components. The low voltage components are on one bench and the high voltage components are on the other so I maintain my distance from the high voltage components. I can’t move the probes while the buttons are pushed, so there is no power to the system, because they are out of reach. I also never allow anyone to be close to the system before I start burning. Normally I am alone and I have my system set up outside when I do this. This way I am not breathing smoke from the burn.
Thanks for recommending improvements to my system. Good luck with your future burning and be safe.
Can you apply the bake soda liquid while the burner is on and operating.
No. The second I remove my finger from the master power button there is no power anywhere in the system. I keep a safe distance from the actual burning while the power is applied. I would never apply the solution while the power is on even if I could. It would be extremely dangerous. There is really no reason to do that. If you don’t move the probes and then apply the solution WHILE THE POWER IS OFF and then turn on the power it will continue to burn from where you had stopped.
One question. Why do you need a 20 amp plug instead of a regular plug? Couldnt you use the cord from the microwave? Just curious.
The reason is to enhance safety. A standard 15 amp plug, which is what is on the microwave, will plug into any wall outlet (in North America). The 20 amp plug uses a different configuration that will not plug into standard outlets typically found in houses. The 20 amp plug prevents someone from plugging the high voltage transformer directly into an outlet in a house where it would be generating full power at the high voltage probes. I know you could hardwire the transformer into the outlet box but by using the plug you can add one more safety precaution by unplugging it.
I missed something in my original reply. On a number of plugs there are holes in the ends of each prong. You can put a small lock or a bolt and nut through the holes which adds even more safety since it eliminates the risk of it being plugged in.
@@liz-artcreations6633 that makes sense. Thanks
A t precisely 7:15 there is an aberrant behavior which indicates you very likely have a leakage current. It may be possible the path merely surfaces at that point. Still, on the transformer, is the secondary in any way at all connected to earth ground, OR, is one secondary lead connected to the transformer frame?
Otherwise though, this is one of only three videos on UA-cam which has a degree of merit. I must say though, we have a way to go to make the lichtenburg technique as safe as a table saw.
😉
There is definitely leakage current. Because I am using plywood the current has a tendency to follow glue joints. I prefer to use solid wood. The leakage current is why I use plastic matts, plastic tables, and have everything on rubber matts. To isolate myself as much as possible. I haven't used my Lichtenberg system for a while so I am not sure about the frame grounding. I will check that out. Thanks for the tip. I will be making the cord longer that runs between the controls and the transformer so I can isolate myself further by using separate tables and use separate rubber matts. One for the high voltage side and another that I stand on for the control side. I will then earth ground the high voltage side. The control side is already grounded.
Great suggestion. Thanks.
@@liz-artcreations6633NO, DO NOT earth ground the high voltage side! I DID NOT IN ANY WAY SAY THE HIGH VOLTAGE SIDE SHOULD BE GROUNDED. This is extremely unsafe and creates many more current pathways which can easily become lethal.
This is very likely the problem you have now, and the source of your leakage. Both high voltage leads should float free from earth ground and be expertly insulated from the transformer terminals to the probe tips.
Also, the two table idea trades some risk off for others.
Your original comment got me to thinking about the possibility of using a GFI method of shutting off the power if there was any leakage current to ground on the high voltage side. I will have to look into that.
@@liz-artcreations6633I can tell you this is not an easy task, as I have designed current monitoring systems for 30kV capillary electrophoresis systems. I won't get into the wonderful geekey details, but you are indeed thinking in a good way here.
AND, I am pleased to hear you are seeing the difference between this sort of system on the secondary, vs. the primary. Most UA-camrs totally miss that. KUDOS!
That is exactly what needs to be done, BUT, BUT, BUT, we need a design specification, specifically, an allowable error in differential current, how much and for how long. This will be intimately related to an estimate of a human to survive a certain current for a certain time, which is very difficult data to obtain. Ultimately, to do the background calculations, one has to put a price on human life!
So, I have an alternative idea, perhaps to focus on isolation, and the robustness of isolation. I will make a design proposal fairly soon.
For now, if possible, just leave it in the closet? Having thought this through more, I am starting to see a machine which is as safe as a chainsaw or table-saw.
1) You need to use high voltage insulated wires on the HV side of the transformer. 2) A “system hot” light or buzzer is a good reminder 3) Info that the transformer should not be grounded on the supply side would be good. 3) Better HV probe insulation would be good, it will jump through that thin plastic pipe. 4) Your unrated thin rubber gloves are better than nothing, but could be a false sense security.
These are all EXCELLENT recommendations on how to improve this system. I made use of what I had available and my primary objective was to eliminate the risk of power ever being applied when working at the potentially "hot" end, and to isolate myself as best as possible while it is live. Primarily by staying well back from the high voltage, or any voltage for that matter while the system was working. Thanks for the recommendations and I hope they help others stay safe.
hai sir
Thật tuyệt vời
Thanks. I wanted to encourage people that considered doing this to do it as safely as possible. It is very dangerous if you do not know what you are doing.
you know most people who watch this video won’t understand what the point or all the safety measures, skip it. Like next you should do a diy convert a lawnmower into a small helicopter.
That may be true which is why I don’t tell or show how to do the actual wiring, but for those that are going to do this anyway, they will require some knowledge of electricity and wiring. Hopefully they recognize and understand each of the safety features I use.
I have a background in aerospace. I never thought about using a lawnmower engine for a helicopter. It got me wondering if it could be used for a gyrocopter. 🙂
Needs some more switches in that setup. 😂
The PBNO is critical, the one on the Variac is built in, and the only reason I put one on the high voltage transformer is because it isn't hardwired into the outlet box which make the system more portable. I happen to have one plug in my shop with a 120v 20A receptacle, so the switch adds a little more safety for my situation.
stop showing this technique, it killed my brother. there are many people who died by this experiment
Sorry to hear about your brother. These videos shouldn't be online.
Sorry to hear about your brother, but this is exactly why I made this video. I heard about people getting killed doing this and I saw numerous videos that I thought were extremely dangerous. My focus is on safety. I don’t show how to build the system, but I show all of the methods I use to make my system safer. People will make these systems with no knowledge of electricity or safety. My video focuses only on safety. This is not a low risk activity and if you don’t know what you are doing DON’T DO IT. Neither is sky diving, scuba diving, auto racing, or mountain climbing, but people still do it. I created this video to show all of my safety features to save lives because there are people who will do this no matter what they are told.
UA-cam is starting to take down some of these videos if enough people flag them as "dangerous or harmful acts" one thing we can do to help prevent more deaths is to flag as many videos as possible. I am so sorry for your loss.
Rather have discussion about it than having the uneducated find out the hard way. Many things are dangerous.
@mafurock33
Yeah. Let's remove educational videos about safety so people keep hacking microwave transformers without any safety measures at all and die.
While you're at it, flag videos advocating for safe driving, proper climbing safety, power tool handling, s**-ed and other safety related content.
There really is no safe way to do this. Make one mistake, you die. Don't bother.
a lot of effort but I think you have a false sense of security in this set up. The problem I see is that the burning voltage typically 2-4000 volts is NOT going to be reliably contained by the insulating materials and switch components you have there. The extreme high tension is looking for ground and the slightest path to ground will be found, this includes the leads from you high power transformer and the wiring connecting the variable transformer and control switch, table tops and work surfaces that have conductive capability. Bottom line is that I do not think this setup is fail safe to prevent high voltage migration back to the low voltage components and ultimately the operator.
The very best operational model would be a remote, non conductive switch actuator...no manual. A total power down is essential for any and all component adjustments including the variable transformer...set it on a dead system then power up when the operator is removed from the device a good distance.
I always appreciate suggestions for improvement. Please send me a link to your setup? I am sure others would be grateful to see your improvements.
I made use of what I had available. I work on a silicone rubber mat on a plastic sawhorses, and the entire system including myself are on a 1 inch thick rubber mat. I could improve my system by using better leads with a higher rating and actual plastic conduit but I am not near the leads, wood, or probes when the system is powered up. I could use better gloves but there is no power on when I am working with the probes because of the master push button switch. All of the components I make contact with while the system is operating are correctly rated for voltage and current. If isolation is a concern the cord on the high voltage transformer could be made longer and then the controlling components could be on one table and the high voltage transformer with the leads and wood being burned could be on a different table. Hopefully these suggestions makes everyone’s system better.
I came here after watching Ann Reardon’s video on the “how to cook that” channel on how this is killing people and the horrific injuries resulting from this…… don’t do it.
Same. After finishing her video I just Googled if there was any safe way to do it. I assumed there was actual equipment and that any danger would come from the fact that people are putting together their own janky machines.
I agree 100% that if you don’t know what you are doing or how to do it safely, don’t do it! I made this video after discovering through the AAW (American Association of Woodturners) that a number of people were dying doing this. That is why I created this video. To show all of the safety features I have incorporated into “my system” hoping that others doing this will add safety features as well. I do not show how to do the wiring of any of the components, so in order to build my system you have to have knowledge of electrical wiring and an understanding of electricity. If you intend to do this you should have that knowledge and skill before you even considering doing this. I did this video to save lives, not to teach them how to build dangerous systems. I focused solely on safety. I have seen numerous videos of systems, some even professionally manufactured, that do not cover or incorporate anywhere close to the number of safety features I use. I have worked in electrical and electronics my whole life and I hope that sharing the knowledge and experience I included in my system will help others to consider many options to add safety features to their systems. I am not condoning or promoting this method, but there are people that will do this no matter what they are told. I am only providing information about my system and all the safety features I have incorporated. If you do not know how to do this safely DON’T DO IT!