Modeling of experiments for measuring dynamic arc impedance

Summary form only given. The performance of arc switches driving real impedance loads may be improved by the addition of complex networks that modify switching behavior. The design of such networks will require switch models that provide precise predictions of switching behavior under dynamic conditions. A test fixture under construction is designed to measure the dynamic impedance of arc switches in liquids at various times during switch closure. The test fixture launches spherical waves onto a near-perfect conical transmission line. Perturbing spherical dielectric inserts reflect waves that converge on and reflect from the arc at various times. The resulting reflections may be interpreted to provide the dynamic arc impedance. A pSPICE model is used to predict the observed waveforms.