Pulsed laser electrode assembly

Patent · Tue Dec 16 04:00:00 EST 1980

OSTI ID:6569502

Clark, D J; Fahlen, T S

An electrode assembly for a compact high vacuum pulsed gas discharge laser comprises an elongated cathode and a coextensive anode spaced apart in a direction transversely of the flow of gas to define a discharge gap. Each of the electrodes is connected at a plurality of equally spaced points along its length to a like number of conductive rods which extend through the top wall of the laser housing for connection to a power source. The cathode comprises a carrier bar directly attached to said rods and a cathode bar adjustably secured to the carrier bar for vertical movement toward and away from the anode to permit attainment of a uniform discharge gap throughout the length of the electrodes. Preionization of the discharge gap is achieved by means of a conductive sleeve electrically connected to one of the electrodes and disposed against the inner surface of a dielectric tube which contacts the other electrode throughout its length. A cooling tube from an external source of coolant passes through a vacuumtight housing feedthrough post for engagement with the cathode carrier bar over its length for cooling the cathode assembly.

• Assignee: GTE Products Corp
• Patent Number(s): US 4240044
• OSTI ID: 6569502
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

42 ENGINEERING
420300* -- Engineering-- Lasers-- (-1989)
DESIGN
ELECTRIC CONDUCTORS
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
ELECTRODES
GAS LASERS
LASERS
PULSES
SPARK GAPS