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Thread: Why does my microwave spark when I make popcorn?

  1. #1
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    Default Why does my microwave spark when I make popcorn?

    I bought a box (10 mini packs) of Orville Redenbacher microwave popcorn.

    Every time I make one (keeping in mind that I remove the packaging as directed) a small bit on the front lip of my microwave starts sparking like crazy.

    It doesn't do this with any other type of popcorn, or with any other foods. Obviously I can just not buy OR anymore, but I'm curious. It's done it with every pack and I only have one left. The microwave at work did not do the same thing.
    "It's Quite Cool." -Gandalf

  2. #2
    Stegodon
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    Default Re: Why does my microwave spark when I make popcorn?

    I don't know the answer, but are the packs from the same box, or is it repeating across boxes?

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    Default Re: Why does my microwave spark when I make popcorn?

    Quote Originally posted by Ensign Edison
    I don't know the answer, but are the packs from the same box, or is it repeating across boxes?
    Same box. This is the first time I've tried this kind.
    "It's Quite Cool." -Gandalf

  4. #4
    Stegodon
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    Default Re: Why does my microwave spark when I make popcorn?

    I kept wondering about this, so I tried a bit of googling. I found this:

    The aluminum layer in a commercial bag of microwave popcorn, called the susceptor panel, is
    very thin and produces heat from interaction with microwaves, but generally does not make enough sparks
    to ignite the paper bag.
    I suspect you got a batch with just a touch too much of that in the bags.

  5. #5
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    Default Re: Why does my microwave spark when I make popcorn?

    Quote Originally posted by Ensign Edison
    I suspect you got a batch with just a touch too much of that in the bags.
    Humm - interesting. That could very well be the reason. I will note that the sparking all takes place at the same tiny spot at the front of the microwave, which is now blackened from being burnt/shocked.

    It's very weird.
    "It's Quite Cool." -Gandalf

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