Gaseous dielectric high voltage insulation for space applications

This paper describes a miniature high voltage power supply for space use that is comparable to a TWTA EPC. The supply uses a gaseous mixture of SF₆ and N₂ for bulk high voltage insulation rather than a solid dielectric (i.e., potting). Experimental breakdown data show good agreement with ionization theory after accounting for geometrical effects typical of real power supplies. In the proper application, a gaseous dielectric is advantageous compared to potting for minimizing mass and volume. Gaseous dielectrics also offer certain manufacturing advantages such as guaranteed freedom from voids and ease of rework.