[VAC] Re: Why 42 Volts?

["Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx>]

48 volts isn't a convenient multiple of 14 volts, the charging voltage
of 6 cells. The next multiple would be 56 volts, for four of the current
sized 6 cell batteries. then 70 volts. Voltages below 50 volts are
considered less hazardous to human health (shock hazard) than voltages
above 50 volts. The big hazard with 14 or 42 volts is burn through rings
or metal watch bands shorting circuits. The typical starting battery can
deliver over 1000 amps when shorted and rings and metal watch bands turn
into red hot limb or finger amputators.

A Google search "Why 42 volts" produced 93,900 hits. Beginning with:
http://www.familyhaven.com/cars/42voltsunderthehood.html
http://www.autointell.com/news-2000/June-2000/June-27-00-p9.htm
http://aftermarket.theautochannel.com/articles/2000/12/04/011080.html
http://aftermarket.theautochannel.com/news/2000/07/27/964723971.1.html
http://www.autospeed.co.nz/A_0319/page1.html
http://www.dri.mcgraw-hill.com/services/industry/42volts.html
http://www.bordnetzforum-42v.de/bordnetz/42v_e.html
http://www.sae.org/digitalcar/42volt.htm
http://www.tierone.com/newresearchn.html

Gerald J.