Thread: Lichtenberg pyrography

I have watched several videos on this process and thought about pens too.

I see a problem in that the burning is only skin deep, so anything you may want would be turned off.

I can only think that if the process was applied to a turned blank, the blank would likely be destroyed.

Looks good Pete
I have seen it done on a couple of pens, too much learning curve for me ... i would probably end up being one of the grounders

MIK

The dangerous ones are the modified microwave transformers that can pump out a massive amount of current. With creating lichtenbergs you just need really high voltage, at bugger all current. Old school neon transformers or the newer oil burner ignition transformers are perfect instead. Most are around the 15mA range at 10k to 15kV.

Done with properly insulated cables and some care, it can be very safe and easy to do. As it really only penetrates the top surface, you need a conductive solution to brush on to control the direction of the burning, but you then need to clean the solution off, which can put some people off, but it's definitely worth trying at least once.

cheers, Ian

I struggle to understand how processes like these can make a natural product like timber look any better than it already is.

Done delicately without overdoing it, can be a really beautiful enhancement to many wood projects. No different to the effects of carving or engraving really.

It really is like captured lightning.

cheers, Ian

I have seen a pen on the IAP decorated like that, but being so small the lines weren't, to me, delicate enough. I can't remember if it was done before the tube was glued in or if it can be done after. I would be inclined to use a pyrography tool and burn in patterns with it. Less of a chance of Lichtenberging the surface of my body.
Pete

Originally Posted by BobL

I struggle to understand how processes like these can make a natural product like timber look any better than it already is.

To jazz up a plain straight grained wood that has little to no character.

Pete

I have been thinking about getting a Lichtenberg machine, but the only ones I have found that you can buy are 120V. Conestoga Works - Lichtenberg Figure Wood Burners 2017
Does anyone no where I may find one in Australia?

Originally Posted by QC Inspector

I have seen a pen on the IAP decorated like that, but being so small the lines weren't, to me, delicate enough. I can't remember if it was done before the tube was glued in or if it can be done after. I would be inclined to use a pyrography tool and burn in patterns with it. Less of a chance of Lichtenberging the surface of my body.
Pete

Given that the pen blank would need to be turned to final proportions / shape before the Lichtenberg "Pyro" was applied it would mean that the tube was at least temporarily in for the turning.

I can't see how the tube could be in for the "pyro" as the current would find the path of least resistance - the tube, and not "track" across the surface of the blank, at least not with Sierra styles with the thin blank wall & possibly creating a short circuit.

Hopefully this Lichtenberg "Pyro" fad will pass quickly, the risk vs reward equation doesn't stack up for me -15ma at 15kV is still a very serious hazard.

You all in OZ have most of the world's most figured and colored woods.
Our woods like basswood, birch, ash, maple, elm and so on will put you to sleep faster than ether.
The designs are like abstract wall papers. Just breaks up the monotony of our woods.

15mA @ 15kV is a hazard to the uneducated. I agree.
Electricity is like a waterfall = the height is the voltage and the volume of water is the amperage.
Static electrical discharge in a dry house can be 20kV or more. Just enough amps to kill modern digital electronics.

Build your own??

Reminds me of our family motto "I Wouldn't Do That If I Were You".....

Originally Posted by Mr Brush

Build your own??

Reminds me of our family motto "I Wouldn't Do That If I Were You".....

"Hold my beer and watch this ...."

I'm pretty sure human bodies are the same as most electronic items - after the magic smoke comes out it is just about impossible to get it working again.

At our Annual Canberra Show in the woodwork section a very poor effort was shown, the judge apparently dismissed it as not fitting the section.

Peter.