Current distribution in a plasma erosion opening switch

Journal Article · Thu Nov 15 04:00:00 EST 1984 · Appl. Phys. Lett.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.95056· OSTI ID:6183092

Weber, B V; Commisso, R J; Meger, R A; Neri, J M; Oliphant, W F; Ottinger, P F

The current distribution in a plasma erosion opening switch is determined from magnetic field probe data. During the closed state of the switch the current channel broadens rapidly. The width of the current channel is consistent with a bipolar current density limit imposed by the ion flux to the cathode. The effective resistivity of the current channel is anomalously large. Current is diverted to the load when a gap opens near the cathode side of the switch. The observed gap opening can be explained by erosion of the plasma. Magnetic pressure is insufficient to open the gap.

• Research Organization: Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375
• OSTI ID: 6183092
• Journal Information: Appl. Phys. Lett.; (United States), Journal Name: Appl. Phys. Lett.; (United States) Vol. 45:10; ISSN APPLA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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CURRENT DENSITY
CURRENTS
ELECTRIC CONDUCTIVITY
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
ELECTRIC POTENTIAL
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES
EQUIPMENT
MAGNETIC FIELDS
MAGNETIC PROBES
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
PLASMA SWITCHES
POWER GENERATION
PROBES
SWITCHES