Hi Dave.
Thanks for your alerts.
I did not realize what can happen when a selenium rectifier fails.
Maybe I should give customers the option to have the rectifier replaced with a silicon alternative when servicing their equipment.
It is no secret that the speed control on most Hammant and Morgan controllers contains a former of compressed asbestos.
As is found in millions of domestic appliances currently in use in the UK.
UK Government states asbestos is not considered harmful when in large pieces and undamaged.
It’s only when it is disturbed that it becomes a potential health-hazard.
Again, thanks for your observations
Andrew
Hi
I’ve just replaced the selenium rectifier in my Safety Minor from the 1960s with a silicon diode rectifier, as it was generating quite a bit of abnormal heat. Considering the age that all these rectifiers will be, and the potential harmful effects of a failed selenium rectifier, do you replace them as a matter of course?
I am aware that later (1970’s ?) controllers use 1N4002 silicon diodes which solve the problem.
And I would also ask, have you ascertained if the rheostat former in some H&M controllers is made of asbestos or not?
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7 comments
Hi Dave.
Thanks for your alerts.
I did not realize what can happen when a selenium rectifier fails.
Maybe I should give customers the option to have the rectifier replaced with a silicon alternative when servicing their equipment.
It is no secret that the speed control on most Hammant and Morgan controllers contains a former of compressed asbestos.
As is found in millions of domestic appliances currently in use in the UK.
UK Government states asbestos is not considered harmful when in large pieces and undamaged.
It’s only when it is disturbed that it becomes a potential health-hazard.
Again, thanks for your observations
Andrew
Hi
I’ve just replaced the selenium rectifier in my Safety Minor from the 1960s with a silicon diode rectifier, as it was generating quite a bit of abnormal heat. Considering the age that all these rectifiers will be, and the potential harmful effects of a failed selenium rectifier, do you replace them as a matter of course?
I am aware that later (1970’s ?) controllers use 1N4002 silicon diodes which solve the problem.
And I would also ask, have you ascertained if the rheostat former in some H&M controllers is made of asbestos or not?