ELECTROSTATIC POWER GENERATOR.
Abstract
Investigations on the conversion of power from mechanical to electrical using a vacuum-insulated electrostatic generator are reported. The output power of the generator was increased during the present program to 433 watts compared to the previous 200 watts obtained. Excellent performance was achieved using a rotary atmosphere-to-vacuum seal for 10,000 rpm operation. An improved suspension reduced the change in generator gaps from greater than 0.010 inch to less than 0.001 inch during evacuation of the system. Newly designed control circuitry allowed operation of the rotor at ground potential eliminating the need for a brush. An investigation was made of the parameters affecting electrical breakdown in vacuum. This was done using both large area (1000 sq cm) and small area (20 sq cm) electrodes. In large area studies, 36 kV/mm was supported when the cathode was anodized Al. Small area studies demonstrated the effect of such parameters as surface finish, hardness, material, conditioning methods and the growth of metallic protrusions on electrode surfaces. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0461755
Entities
People
- A. S. Denholm
- C. N. Coenraads
- F. J. Mccoy
- J. E. Lavelle
- M. M. Thayer