VOLTAGE DISTRIBUTION, IONIZATION, AND ENERGY BALANCE IN THE CATHODE REGION OF AN ARC.
Abstract
Formulations are given for the several sub-regions of the model proposed in ARL 63-163 (AD-418 764) for the cathode region of an argon arc. It is shown that it is necessary to include a new transition region in which the ordinary transport theory cannot be applied. Limiting characteristics for this new region are worked out. Numerical results are obtained for that part of the arc between the cathode and the contraction region. These are presented in the form of profiles of voltage, particle concentration, and temperature. The computer program for the contraction region is described in detail. It is demonstrated that the cathode drop is about six or seven volts, which accords with experimental observation. This does not all appear across a positive ion space charge sheath, but includes adjacent parts of the discharge including the ionization region. It is further shown that it is possible to produce the necessary ionization to support the arc although the ionization potential of the gas greatly exceeds the cathode drop. The calculations require data such as the electrical and thermal conductivity in multicomponent gas mixtures in which the species are at different temperatures. Such data was not available and is calculated in the report. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0608937
Entities
People
- Allan Greenwood
- H. P. Fullerton
- T. H. Lee
- W. D. Breingan
Organizations
- General Electric