An Electron-Beam-Triggered Spark Gap
Abstract
Studies on the triggering of a high-voltage, gas-insulated spark gap by an electron beam have been conducted. Risetimes of approximately 2.5 ns and subnanosecond jitter have been obtained for 3 em gaps with gap voltages as low as 50% of the self-breakdown voltage (variable to 1 MV). The switch delay (including the diode) was 50 ns. The working media were N2 , and mixtures of N2 and Ar, and of N2 and SF6 at pressures of 1-3 atm. Open shutter photographs show that the discharge is broad in cross-section. Voltage, current, and jitter measurements have been made for a wide range of gap conditions and electron-beam parameters. Variations in the character of the discharge have been inferred using streak and open shutter photography. Correlation between electron beam width, beam energy, discharge channel width, current risetime, delay, and jitter are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA636681
Entities
People
- A. H. Guenther
- E. E. Kunhardt
- Kevin McDonald
- M . Kristiansen
- M. Newton
Organizations
- Texas Tech University