A RELIABLE 100-KV GAS-FILLED TRIGATRON SWITCH FOR ENERGY UP TO 10 KJ

The design and breakdown-strength and triggering characteristics of a 100-kV trigatron filled with a mixture of 40% SF6 + 60% N-2 up to a pr essure of 1 MPa are described, The gap between the main electrodes is 7 mm, and the circular gap between the rodlike trigger electrode and t he main electrode embracing it is step-shaped in order to increase the service life and stability of the operation delay time. The high-volt age electrode has negative potential, and the triggering voltage pulse is positive. Transient processes are discussed that occur in the spar k gap at certain voltage polarities at the electrodes decreasing the t urn-on delay time by a factor of similar to 10. The breakdown strength over the external surface is >200 kV (oil) and similar to 140 kV (atm ospheric air). In runs with starts of up to 2 x 10(3) and 10-kJ switch ed energy, the delay time is 30 +/- 8 ns with a 70% breakdown-strength margin with respect to the gas.