Development of a 100-kV multimegawatt repetition rate gas switch

A 100-kV gas switch has been developed and tested which is capable of controlling 5-MW average power when operated up to 250- pps repetition rate. Recovery of the switch voltage holdoff capability after each discharge was accomplished by providing both a 1-ms grace period during which no voltage is reapplied, and by continuously purging the switch with 40-psig pressurized air at flow rates up to 60 SCFM. The switch was tested using a simulation technique in which the switch was subjected to the same repetitive peak voltage and current as it would in controlling several megawatts of average power. Limits of switch performance as a function of air flow rate and peak voltage have been established.