Pseudospark switches for high-power applications

Andreas Goertler; Jens Christiansen; S. Doellinger; K. H. Frank; U. Herleb; S. Insam; T. Mehr; M. Schlaug; A. Schwandner; R. Tkotz

doi:10.1117/12.174592

1 May 1994 Pseudospark switches for high-power applications

Andreas Goertler, Jens Christiansen, S. Doellinger, K. H. Frank, U. Herleb, S. Insam, T. Mehr, M. Schlaug, A. Schwandner, R. Tkotz

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 2259, XVI International Symposium on Discharges and Electrical Insulation in Vacuum; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.174592
Event: XVI International Symposium on Discharges and Electrical Insulation in Vacuum, 1994, Moscow-St. Petersburg, Russian Federation

Abstract

Longterm tests with several electrode materials and discharge channel arrangements were performed. Two possible geometries were tested, a radial and a coaxial one. Optical fast shutter technique, and spectroscopic and interferometric methods were used to get more information about the discharge-character, the pinching of the discharge channels due to magnetic forces, and the erosion mechanism. The homogeneous ignition and the equal distribution of the current into the individual discharge channels was proved by fast photography and current measurements. At currents exceeding some kA the pseudospark transforms from a specific hollow cathode discharge into a metal-vapor-arc like behavior. Measurements of the forward voltage drop provide values of less than 100 V which are typical for metal-vapor-arcs. Also cathode spots and their traces on the electrode surface were observable. The performance of these switches in pulsed power devices will be reported.

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Andreas Goertler, Jens Christiansen, S. Doellinger, K. H. Frank, U. Herleb, S. Insam, T. Mehr, M. Schlaug, A. Schwandner, and R. Tkotz "Pseudospark switches for high-power applications", Proc. SPIE 2259, XVI International Symposium on Discharges and Electrical Insulation in Vacuum, (1 May 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.174592

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