Development and Operation of a Solid-State Switch for Thyratron Replacement
Abstract
A solid-state switch, consisting of 22 reverse conducting thyristors, has been designed to operate at 20 kV hold-off voltage, 1500 A peak, 57 ARMS, 1.0 microsecond pulse-width, and 4500 pps. To date, 70 switches have been fielded, accumulating over 330,000 unit-hours with a demonstrated MTBF of over 6000 hours. The previously used thyratrons have all been replaced since the solid state switch has proven to be more reliable. In addition, the solid state switch is more cost effective due to its ability to be repaired. This paper discusses the design, construction, triggering, operation, reliability, and failure modes of this switch.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA638939
Entities
People
- B. T. Merritt
- G. R. Dreifuerst
Organizations
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory