Statistical Delay Times in Small Gas Spark Gaps
Abstract
Statistical times were measured as a function of overvoltage and gap age in small (0.127 mm), flowing-gas spark gaps. Air, nitrogen, oxygen and helium are reported on here. Statistical time was determined by averaging 60 measurements of the time between application of voltage to the gap and breakdown. These times, ranging from 100 ns to over 100 (mu)s were measured with 10 ns resolution. Aging was done by breaking down the spark gap 40 times per second until the desired number of pulses were obtained (5000, 50,000, 500,000). Aging increased the breakdown voltage of gaps filled with air, nitrogen and oxygen, but had little effect when helium was used. The functional dependence of the statistical time on electric field strength was not changed by aging. Limited results showed statistical time increasing with pressure in air-filled spark gaps.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA638016
Entities
People
- D. D. Lindberg
- J. W. Rice
- R. J. Gripshover
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division