Re: [TCML] High Power Static Gaps

[jimlux <jimlux@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Sfxneon@xxxxxxx wrote:
> Thanks Jim, that gets me to wondering, if at some point, pressure  might work 
> better than vacuum?
>  
> Are there any more considerations than just overheating of the electrodes?  I 
> know that proper quenching is the real goal and keeping the electrode  
> temperature as low as possible is essential for that, but could a single static  gap 
> quench at multi-kilowatt power levels if kept cool enough? 
>  
> Which brings to mind this question: Is there anything like a tungsten flat  
> washer available anywhere? If so, how about brazing one on to the face of each  
> copper cap electrode?
>  
> Tony Greer
> *************

Yes.. if for no other reason than the pressure differential can be 
bigger.. a vacuum gap is limited to 15 psi-ish

The whole thing is a tradeoff between the ions staying in the area of 
the gap long enough for the spark to propagate across it and start 
conducting, or, blowing enough air through it to prevent a hot spot from 
developing and emitting enough electrons through thermionic emission to 
lead to premature ignition.

_______________________________________________
Tesla mailing list
Tesla@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://www.pupman.com/mailman/listinfo/tesla