A review of anode phenomena in vacuum arces

Technical Report · Thu Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1988

OSTI ID:7086566

Miller, H C

This report discusses arc modes at the anode, experimental results pertinent to anode phenomena, and theoretical explanations of anode phenomena. The dominant mechanism controlling the formation of an anode spot appears to depend upon the electrode geometry, the electrode material, and the current waveforms of the particular vacuum arc being considered. In specific experimental conditions, either magnetic constriction in the gap plasma or gross anode melting or local anode evaporation can trigger the transition. However, the most probable explanation of anode spot formation is a combination theory, which considers magnetic constriction in the plasma together with the fluxes of material from the anode and cathode as well as the thermal, electrical, and geometric effects of the anode in analyzing the behavior of the anode and the nearby plasma. 88 refs., 6 figs., 8 tabs.

• Research Organization: General Electric Co., Largo, FL (USA). Neutron Devices Dept.
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-76DP00656
• OSTI ID: 7086566
• Report Number(s): GEPP-TIS-1076; ON: DE88017304
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS
ANODES
CATHODE SPUTTERING
CATHODES
CURRENTS
DATA
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
ELECTRIC SPARKS
ELECTRODES
EROSION
FIELD THEORIES
FLASHOVER
HIGH VACUUM
INFORMATION
MELTING
NUMERICAL DATA
PHASE TRANSFORMATIONS
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SPARK GAPS
SPUTTERING
THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIES
VAPOR PRESSURE