Mercury-arc rectifiers for medium-voltage applications. A review of progress

The progress made during the past dozen years, and the present world practice and trends, are reviewed as regards the construction and application of all types of mercury-arc rectifiers for d.c. voltages up to about 15 000. The present rivalries between pumpless and pumped, between multi-anode and single-anode, between water-cooled and air-cooled, and between steel and glass constructions, are illustrated by sectional drawings and are discussed in detail. Associated circuit problems are also reviewed. Other types of rectifiers that have recently appeared, which may affect mercury-arc rectifier practice, are also briefly discussed. References are given to enable most of the subjects touched on in the review to be studied further if desired.