Blueprint

Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV)

A 10 stage Marx generator powered by a 5kV NST! Creates pulse discharges of extreme power, much higher than a standard voltage multiplier.

Created by Sidd Sidd 🚀

Tier 4

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Timeline

CAN CAN ⚡🚀 approved Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) ago

Tier approved: 4

Grant approved: $51.00

Sidd Sidd 🚀 submitted Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) for review ago

CAN CAN ⚡🚀 requested changes for Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) ago

Your cart screenshots do not add up to your total amount requested.

Sidd Sidd 🚀 added to the journal ago

Created a CAD of the layout

The original CAD was just the base, but in addition to the 2D schematic a 3d view of the circuit would also be helpful to anyone else wanting to build this. While making the CAD, I realized that I might scavenge some microwave diodes in order to increase performance of the generator with the NST if it's not living up to my standards.

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Sidd Sidd 🚀 submitted Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) for review ago

Sidd Sidd 🚀 added to the journal ago

Updated the BOM / Fixed input transformer

Originally, I was going to use a 5kV NST. I have replaced it with a 3kV NST which will lower the output drastically but it is also a lot cheaper. I was requested to make the transformer myself, however that would not be possible within the budget. This is due to a few reasons:
-Marx generators require a DC or low frequency AC input
-Flyback transformers (which are able to be self made), output at very high frequency.
-Winding a low frequency HV transformer is quite expensive. Think of MOTs, which are huge bricks of iron and copper. An NST is less of a 'brick', but it still requires hard to obtain cores.

TLDR: Low frequency HV transformers are not viable to make as a hobbyist and I have switched the original $25 NST for a cheaper, more affordable $10 one.
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CAN CAN ⚡🚀 requested changes for Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) ago

Can you make the transformer yourself?

Sidd Sidd 🚀 submitted Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) for review ago

Sidd Sidd 🚀 added to the journal ago

Designed the base

The base is really simple and was a quick design but there's not much more to it. Holes for the spark gaps and that's it. Even those aren't necessary but it helps save some filament so I thought it'd be a good idea. Most bases are just straight up made of a wood block so there's not much more to it here. I'd say that the design is finished by now so I'll go ahead and update the README and polish the repo to be shipped.Screenshot 2025-10-04 170137.png

Sidd Sidd 🚀 added to the journal ago

Created the schematic

Drew out the schematic for the 10 stage Marx generator on a piece of paper for reference. It'll be easier for anyone to recreate with my somewhat hopefully generally clear schematic? I think at least it should work well. I plan to solder the leads straight to each other to make the easiest spark gap, so I need to CAD a base for the marx generator. IMG_3697.JPG

Sidd Sidd 🚀 added to the journal ago

Did some research + basic BOM

Created the BOM which consists of some capacitors, resistors, a transformer, and some 3d printing filament. The great thing about marx generators is that they can be made for insanely cheap and produce insanely high amounts of power. The downside is that the amount of UV produced is atrocious so you better have good safety equipment. Screenshot 2025-10-04 162732.png

Sidd Sidd 🚀 started Marx Generator (Pulse 30kV) ago