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Thyratron switches -- past, present, and future

Conference · · Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5246167

Thyratron switches, originally developed for the repetitive pulse power needs of radar, now accommodate a variety of new applications in such diverse areas as laser and particle accelerator systems, induction heaters, and ozone generators. At present, thyratrons have been adapted for use at up to 80 kilovolts and 40 kiloamperes peak. Systems with average power levels of several 10's of kilowatts are in widespread use and megawatt average power switches have been developed. Recent verification of the scaling laws and continuing progress in high voltage research now point to next-generation devices capable of operation at megawatt levels, switching peak powers of 10/sup 11/ watts, in nanosecond time scales.

Research Organization:
Impulse Electronics Inc., Lexington, MA
OSTI ID:
5246167
Report Number(s):
CONF-820814-
Journal Information:
Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States), Journal Name: Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States) Vol. 1; ISSN PIECD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English