[Boatanchors] Electrolytic Reforming Time

[W8KZW]

I just exchanged emails with a ham intending to spend up to two weeks bring
a Heathkit Sixer up on a Variac.  Seems excessive to me.

I generally bump the Variac 10 volts per hour, starting at about 60 volts so
the rectifier generates B+.  Haven't had any issues that I can tell.

When I put an old electrolytic on my Sprague TO-5 and bring it up to full
voltage, it only takes a few minutes for the current to drop to a near-zero
level (on a good cap, anyway).  I figure that's when the can is reformed,
and anything beyond that is wasted - but I go an hour at each level on the
rig I'm bringing back just for some added margin.

I'm certain opinions about this will range across the board, but I wonder if
anyone has any feedback based on documented studies?

73,
Jeff
W8KZW