Developing a pulse trigger generator for a three-electrode spark-gap switch in a transversely excited atmospheric CO2...

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Laser Technology
• Plasma Physics

Background:

• High-power transversely excited atmospheric (TEA) CO2 lasers require reliable spark-gap switches for efficient operation.
• Conventional trigger systems often face limitations in breakdown probability and energy efficiency.
• Improving the trigger system's stability and power consumption is crucial for advanced laser applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an advanced high-voltage pulse trigger generator for a three-electrode spark-gap switch.
• To enhance the breakdown discharge probability and stability in TEA CO2 laser systems.
• To increase the overall efficiency of the spark-gap switch trigger system.

Main Methods:

• Designed a high-voltage pulse trigger generator utilizing a two-transistor forward converter topology.
• Employed a multiple-narrow-pulse trigger method with a 10 μs high-voltage pulse for gas breakdown.
• Integrated a dry high-voltage transformer as a booster and a feedback control circuit (SG3525, CD4098) for pulse monitoring and control.

Main Results:

• The developed generator successfully produced high-voltage pulses (>38 kV amplitude, 10 μs width) with adjustable pulse numbers.
• Achieved a 2.7% increase in breakdown probability compared to conventional trigger systems.
• Demonstrated a significant reduction in input power (1.5 kW), an efficiency increase of 0.12, and a loss reduction of 1.512 kW.

Conclusions:

• The novel high-voltage pulse trigger generator significantly improves the performance of spark-gap switches for high-power TEA CO2 lasers.
• The system offers enhanced reliability, stability, and energy efficiency, making it suitable for demanding laser applications.
• The design represents a substantial advancement over traditional trigger methods, offering practical benefits in power consumption and operational effectiveness.