High power spark gap switches - A numerical model and experimental investigation
Abstract
A numerical model has been developed, and an experimental program undertaken to improve the operating characteristics of high power spark gap switches passing Megawatt average power, with hold-off voltages of several hundred kilovolts, and repetition rates above 100 pulses per second. The model and measurements are being used to understand and predict the effects of various interrelated parameters, including gas flow rate and pressure, gap spacing and geometry, recovery voltage and current waveform, and pulse repetition frequency. The numerical model predicts the approximate dielectric recovery rate and the grace period required before subsequent switching. Photographic and spectroscopic measurements of arc properties are described.
- Publication:
-
Future of Aerospace Power Systems
- Pub Date:
- March 1977
- Bibcode:
- 1977faps.conf.....D
- Keywords:
-
- Arc Discharges;
- Gas Flow;
- Numerical Analysis;
- Photographic Measurement;
- Spark Gaps;
- Gas Discharges;
- Partial Differential Equations;
- Performance Prediction;
- Plasma Temperature;
- Spectroscopic Analysis;
- Electronics and Electrical Engineering