High Current Evaluation Of The New Size E Ignitrons With A Ringing Waveform

In recent years there has been much work to increase the energy density of pulsed power equipment. Recently, new ignitrons have been developed for higher current and coulomb ratings. Two ignitrons, the Richardson NL9000 and the EEV BKI002, have been tested with the aim of completing 500 shots at a charge transfer of 400 Coulombs with a peak pulse current of 500 kA and a 32% current reversal. This paper describes the experimental set up and discusses the results of the test programme. These tests have shown that these new designs of ignitron possess a much lower voltage drop than previous versions. They also demonstrate the ability to switch the required duty, although for the required shot life the current had to be derated to 400 kA and the charge transfer to 320 C.