My current output is 34-35VAC. I added a rectifier of suitable amperage, and the voltage now reads 35VDC. I also decided to add smoothing capacitors (2) 37000uf - 40VDC electrolytics in series to raise the voltage rating to 80vdc, which lowers the capacitance to 18500uf. The minute I connect the capacitors to the circuit( ++, --), the reading on my voltmeter drops to zero. What is the deal with that? Never saw that happen before. I also plan on adding a 320v MOV on the Ac input and dc output. Do I need a reactor coil also? Or can I just get by on the capacitors/rectifier/MOV's?

Thanks!

 

skip the caps altogether.

The dc can have AC ripple on it. It doesn't cause any harm. AC goes to 'zero' volts and reverses polarity. As long as you have a positive(or negative) potential that doesn't change polarity or go to 'zero', then you are DC welding.

Keep it simple.