Modeling of Spark Gap Performance
Abstract
A model which incorporates the influence of electrode surface conditions, gas pressure, and charging rate on the voltage stability of high energy spark gaps is discussed. Implications of the model include changes in the width of the self-breakdown voltage probability density function as the secondary emission characteristics of the cathode are modified by, for example, oxide and nitride coatings and/or deposits from the insulator. The model indicates that a narrow self-breakdown voltage distribution requires a source of electrons near the cathode surface, which could be provided by UV photo-illumination of the cathode. In addition, the model provides an extremely useful, and physically reasonable framework, from which the properties of spark gaps under a wide variety of experimental conditions may be evaluated. Both experimental and theoretical results are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA638333
Entities
People
- A. L. Donaldson
- L. L. Hatfield
- M . Kristiansen
- M. Hagler
- R. Ness
Organizations
- Texas Tech University