Research of an electromagnetically actuated spark gap switch

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Electrical Engineering
• Pulsed Power Systems

Background:

• Compact, high-performance triggered spark gap switches are crucial for pulsed power applications, particularly in intense electron-beam accelerators (IEBA).
• Existing technologies often face limitations in achieving both miniaturization and robust high-voltage, high-current capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel, compact, electromagnetically actuated spark gap switch for IEBA applications.
• To evaluate the switch's performance under varying nitrogen gas pressures and assess its operational stability.

Main Methods:

• An electromagnetically actuated spark gap switch was designed and constructed.
• The switch was triggered using a 24 V DC power supply.
• Performance characteristics were measured in nitrogen (N2) at pressures ranging from 0.10 to 0.30 MPa.

Main Results:

• A linear voltage/pressure (V/p) relationship was observed for the spark gap switch.
• The switch demonstrated reliable operation across a wide range of pressures, with operating ranges between 16%-96% of its self-breakdown voltage.
• Stable and reliable performance was achieved with a peak voltage of 30 kV and a peak current of 60 kA at 0.30 MPa N2 pressure in an IEBA.

Conclusions:

• The developed compact, electromagnetically actuated spark gap switch is suitable for IEBA applications.
• The switch exhibits stable and reliable performance characteristics, meeting the demands of high-voltage and high-current pulsed power systems.