EP0433480A1 - Hollow electrode switch - Google Patents

Hollow electrode switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0433480A1
EP0433480A1 EP89123566A EP89123566A EP0433480A1 EP 0433480 A1 EP0433480 A1 EP 0433480A1 EP 89123566 A EP89123566 A EP 89123566A EP 89123566 A EP89123566 A EP 89123566A EP 0433480 A1 EP0433480 A1 EP 0433480A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hollow electrode
hollow
electrode
switch according
electrode switch
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EP89123566A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0433480B1 (en
Inventor
Klaus-D. Rohde
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Siemens AG
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Siemens AG
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Priority to EP89123566A priority Critical patent/EP0433480B1/en
Priority to DE58909869T priority patent/DE58909869D1/en
Priority to JP2411227A priority patent/JPH04109581A/en
Publication of EP0433480A1 publication Critical patent/EP0433480A1/en
Priority to US07/857,722 priority patent/US5159243A/en
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Publication of EP0433480B1 publication Critical patent/EP0433480B1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
    • H01T2/00—Spark gaps comprising auxiliary triggering means
    • H01T2/02—Spark gaps comprising auxiliary triggering means comprising a trigger electrode or an auxiliary spark gap

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a hollow electrode switch with an anode and a cathode, which is provided with at least one opening for a discharge gap and to which a hollow electrode is assigned, which is arranged in an ionizable gas filling, the pressure p and the electrode spacing d of which are chosen such that that the ignition voltage of the gas discharge decreases with increasing product pd.
  • the ignition voltage for a given gas discharge path and its usual graphical representation as a function of the product of gas pressure p and electrode spacing D in the ignition characteristic curve are known to be an important aid for identifying electrical discharge devices, taking the probability of ignition into account.
  • the infinitely large plate capacitor and its ignition characteristic are generally used for comparison.
  • the practical embodiment of such discharge paths has electrodes with finite dimensions. While it is sufficient to determine the right branch of the ignition characteristic (Paschen curve), i.e.
  • the ignition characteristic curve can also be determined, for example, for various noble and molecular gases in the near-breakdown area, ie to the left of the minimum of the Paschen curve.
  • Gas discharge switches are also known which are controlled by a pulsed low pressure gas discharge. For example, they switch currents of 10 kA at a voltage of 20 kV.
  • the discharge switch contains an anode and a cathode, which are provided with coaxial openings and are separated from one another at the edge by an annular insulator.
  • a control device is provided for the gas discharge, which contains a hollow electrode designed as a cage, which is connected to the cathode in an electrically conductive manner and is therefore at the cathode potential. It surrounds the cathode rear space and separates it from the area of pre-ionization.
  • the gas discharge between the cathode and the anode is ignited by injection of charge carriers.
  • the discharge path is ignited in two stages.
  • an auxiliary electrode generates a pre-ionization by means of a glow discharge.
  • a trigger electrode then receives a negative ignition pulse and the entry of charge carriers into the hollow electrode is made possible in that the potential of a blocking electrode is set to zero. Discharge is initiated when the charge carriers enter the hollow electrode (J. Phys. E: Sci. Instr. 19 (1986), The Inst. Of Physics, Great Britain, pages 466 to 470).
  • a plurality of electrodes are provided, which are arranged coaxially to one another and form a common discharge channel.
  • Several intermediate electrodes are arranged between the anode and the cathode (US Pat. No. 2,900,566).
  • the gas discharge switch can also contain a plurality of discharge channels which are provided with a common trigger device.
  • This trigger device contains a common hollow electrode which is electrically conductively connected to the common cathode.
  • the synchronous ignition of the discharge channels is initiated by charge carriers which enter the cathode rear space from a pre-ionization region through holes in the bottom of the cage (J. Phys. E .: Sci. Instr. 20 (1987), pp. 270 to 273).
  • the invention is based on the object of simplifying and improving this known embodiment of a hollow electrode switch, in particular the ignition device for the hollow electrode switch is to be simplified.
  • At least one space charge preferably a glow discharge, is generated in the hollow electrode.
  • the hollow electrode electrically insulated from the reference electrode combines the function of the pre-ionization and the trigger electrode and a special blocking electrode is no longer required.
  • a hot cathode can be provided, which is arranged between the reference electrode and the bottom of the hollow electrode.
  • the space charge can also be generated, for example, by microwave excitation or by an optical ignition device, in particular a laser beam.
  • a particularly advantageous embodiment of the hollow electrode switch consists in that the space charge required to ignite the discharge gap is provided by a glow discharge.
  • the hollow electrode can be connected in a simple manner to a trigger voltage source for a negative trigger voltage with sufficient energy.
  • the hollow electrode forms the anode and the reference electrode arranged opposite the opening of the hollow electrode forms the cathode for the glow discharge.
  • the hollow electrode can also be connected to an additional voltage source with a positive potential for pre-ionization.
  • This pre-ionization generates a low-current glow discharge within the hollow electrode, which does not yet lead to the ignition of the discharge gap.
  • This glow discharge improves the dielectric strength at the discharge gap and thus the stability of the switch.
  • the ignition of the discharge gap is then only generated by the superimposed negative trigger pulse with a steep rising edge and a short duration by the trigger electrode.
  • the reference electrode has a double function; at the same time it forms a cathode for the gas discharge on the discharge gap and on its rear side facing away from the discharge gap a cathode for the glow discharge.
  • a hollow electrode switch with a very low switching delay (delay) and low scatter (jitter) is obtained; furthermore, this hollow electrode switch has a significantly lower voltage dependency at the same pressure.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a hollow electrode switch according to the invention.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 each show a special embodiment of the hollow electrode.
  • a hollow electrode switch according to FIG. 1 contains two electrodes, one of which is connected as the cathode 2 and the other as the anode 3 and at least the cathode 2 is provided with at least one opening 4.
  • the anode 3 can also be provided with at least one opening 5.
  • a discharge path 8 is ignited through the two openings 4 and 5.
  • the cathode 2 and the anode 3, which generally each form a rotating body, are arranged at a predetermined distance from one another, which can be, for example, about 1 to 10, preferably about 2 to 5 mm.
  • a discharge path 8 is ignited between the two openings 4 and 5.
  • the cathode 2 and the anode 3 are made of electrically conductive material, preferably stainless steel, and can in general be provided on the discharge gap 8 with special inserts 6 and 7 made of a high-melting metal, or also consist entirely of this high-melting metal.
  • the diameter of the bores 4 and 5 is preferably selected to be at most as large and in particular smaller than the distance d between the electrodes 2 and 3 on the discharge path 8.
  • the thickness of the cathode 2 is preferably reduced at its opening 4, in particular the upper edge of the opening 4 can be chamfered. In particular, the thickness of the anode 3 at its opening 5 can also be reduced.
  • the cathode 2 and the anode 3 are connected to an electrically insulating separating body, which forms part of the wall of a switching chamber 14, which consists of electrically insulating material, preferably ceramic, and is filled with a working gas.
  • the trigger device for the discharge path 8 includes a hollow electrode 10 which is arranged in the switching chamber 14 in such a way that its opening faces the discharge path 8.
  • the distance A of its lower edge from the potential of its reference electrode, which is cathode 2 in this embodiment with positive switching voltage U o of, for example, 40 kV, is less than the length of the cathodic dark space of a glow discharge of the working gas.
  • the hollow electrode 10 consists of an electrically conductive material, for example stainless steel, and has at least the shape of a shell, preferably the shape of a pot, the depth T of which is greater than the length of the cathodic dark space of the glow discharge.
  • the shape of the pot of the hollow electrode 10 is preferably chosen so that the ratio of the diameter D to the pot depth T is approximately 0.2 to 2, in particular approximately 1.
  • the laterally widened base 11 is provided with compensation openings 15 and 16, fastened in the wall of the switching chamber 14 and passed through the wall with an electrically conductive connection.
  • the gas filling consists of an ionizable gas, preferably hydrogen or deuterium or a mixture of these gases.
  • an ionizable gas preferably hydrogen or deuterium or a mixture of these gases.
  • nitrogen or noble gases such as argon or helium, are also suitable.
  • a trigger voltage source 17 is assigned to the hollow electrode 10, which can be connected to the hollow electrode 10 via a limiting resistor 18 and a decoupling capacitance 19, for example.
  • the trigger voltage source 17 supplies a trigger pulse with a steep rising edge and a negative voltage of, for example, approximately 0.5 to 10 kV, preferably approximately 1 to 5 kV compared to the reference potential of the cathode 2, which can be ground potential, for example.
  • the length of the trigger pulse is at least as long as the switching delay of the discharge path 8 and can be, for example, approximately 0.1 to 2 ⁇ s, preferably approximately 0.5 to 1 ⁇ s.
  • the switching chamber 14 generally also contains a gas reservoir 24 for the working gas, for example hydrogen or deuterium or a mixture of these gases.
  • This gas reservoir 24, which is only indicated schematically in the figure, is provided with a heating device, not shown in the figure, whose electrical connections are through the wall of the switch chamber 14 passed and are designated 25 and 26.
  • the gas reservoir of the gas reservoir 24 can preferably also serve as a pressure control system for the hollow electrode switch.
  • the hollow electrode 10 can also be assigned an additional voltage source 21 for preionization, the positive voltage of which, for example, can be approximately 0.1 to 5 kV compared to the reference potential of the cathode 2 and which has a high series resistor 22 of preferably a few Mohm can be connected to the hollow electrode 10.
  • the positive voltage of the voltage source 21 is selected so that it generates a low-current glow discharge in the current range from, for example, ⁇ A to a few mA within the hollow electrode 10, which does not yet lead to breakdown at the discharge path 8. This breakdown is only initiated with the trigger pulse of the trigger voltage source 17.
  • the hollow cylindrical side wall 12 of the hollow electrode 10 can also be provided with such pressure compensation openings.
  • the grounded, upper reference electrode forms the cathode 2 and the lower one forms the anode 3. If a negative switching voltage U o is applied, the upper grounded electrode forms the anode of the discharge gap 8. Regardless of the polarity of the switching voltage U o , the reference electrode referred to as cathode 2 forms the reference potential for the trigger voltage source 17 and the voltage source 21.
  • a hollow electrode switch which contains only a single cathode 2 and an anode 3.
  • a multi-electrode arrangement with intermediate electrodes can also be provided, with which a reduced field strength between the electrodes and a correspondingly increased dielectric strength of the hollow electrode switch is obtained.
  • the hollow electrode switch contains a multiplicity of individual discharge paths which are arranged parallel to one another and are provided with a common hollow electrode which is electrically insulated from their reference electrode and is provided with means for producing a space charge, in particular a glow discharge. This results in an increase in the current rise rate and a reduction in the switch inductance and the switch resistance as well as a long service life and a high current carrying capacity.
  • the bottom 11 of the hollow electrode is provided with an extension 13, the free end of which faces the discharge path 8.
  • the extension 13 has the shape of a cylinder, in which the edge of the end is rounded. This extension 13 serves to influence the glow discharge, in particular the distribution of the space charge density, within the hollow electrode.
  • this extension 13 has the shape of a cone, the rounded tip of which faces the discharge gap 8.

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  • Gas-Filled Discharge Tubes (AREA)
  • Lasers (AREA)
  • Ignition Installations For Internal Combustion Engines (AREA)

Abstract

The hollow electrode switch contains at least two electrodes which form a discharge path for a low-pressure gas discharge, and to which a hollow electrode is allocated. According to the invention, means for generating a spatial charge, especially a glow discharge, are provided inside the hollow electrode (10). This hollow electrode (10) is provided as the anode for the spatial charge and is electrically insulated from the electrodes. In consequence, a particularly simple embodiment of the hollow electrode switch is obtained, with a short switching delay time and small scatter. <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf einen Hohlelektrodenschalter mit einer Anode und einer Kathode, die mit wenigstens einer Öffnung für eine Entladungsstrecke versehen ist und der eine Hohlelek­trode zugeordnet ist, die in einer ionisierbaren Gasfüllung angeordnet ist, deren Druck p und deren Elektrodenabstand d so gewählt sind, daß die Zündspannung der Gasentladung mit stei­gendem Produkt p.d abnimmt.The invention relates to a hollow electrode switch with an anode and a cathode, which is provided with at least one opening for a discharge gap and to which a hollow electrode is assigned, which is arranged in an ionizable gas filling, the pressure p and the electrode spacing d of which are chosen such that that the ignition voltage of the gas discharge decreases with increasing product pd.

Die Zündspannung für eine vorgegebene Gasentladungsstrecke und ihre übliche graphische Darstellung in Abhängigkeit vom Produkt aus Gasdruck p und Elektrodenabstand D in der Zündkennlinie bildet bekanntlich unter entsprechender Berücksichtigung der Zündwahrscheinlichkeit ein wichtiges Hilfsmittel zur Kennzeich­nung von elektrischen Entladungsgeräten. Bei der Ermittlung der elektrischen Spannungsfestigkeit einer vorgegebenen Gas­entladungsstrecke wird im allgemeinen der unendlich große Plat­tenkondensator und seine Zündkennlinie zum Vergleich herange­zogen. Die praktische Ausführungsform solcher Entladungs­strecken hat jedoch Elektroden mit endlichen Abmessungen. Während es zur Ermittlung des rechten Astes der Zündkennlinie (Paschenkurve), d.h. also zur Untersuchung des sogenannten Weitdurchschlagsgebietes einschließlich des Spannungs-Minimums, genügt, lediglich zwei ebene, gegebenenfalls an den Rändern mit einem sogenannten Rogowski-Profil versehene abgerundete Platten parallel zueinander anzuordnen, ist eine derartige konstruktive Anordnung zur Untersuchung von Zündkennlinien im linken Teil der Paschenkurve, d.h. im sogenannten Nahdurchschlagsgebiet, un­brauchbar, weil dann Umwegentladungen auftreten können. Solche Umwegentladungen kann man durch eine Elektrodenkonstruktion mit ebenen Plattenelektroden vermeiden, die koaxial zueinander an­ geordnet und an ihren Rändern mit einem relativ zum Elektroden­abstand kleinen Krümmungsradius voneinander abgebogen und ent­lang der inneren zylindrischen Isolatoroberfläche geführt sind. Es wird somit zwischen dem abgebogenen, zylinderförmigen Rand­gebiet der Elektroden und der Innenwand des hohlzylindrischen Isolators stets ein Spalt gebildet. Mit dieser Ausführungsform einer Niederdruck-Gasentladungsstrecke kann auch im Nahdurch­schlagsgebiet, d.h. links vom Minimum der Paschenkurve, die Zündkennlinie beispielsweise für verschiedene Edel- und Mole­külgase ermittelt werden.The ignition voltage for a given gas discharge path and its usual graphical representation as a function of the product of gas pressure p and electrode spacing D in the ignition characteristic curve are known to be an important aid for identifying electrical discharge devices, taking the probability of ignition into account. When determining the electrical dielectric strength of a given gas discharge path, the infinitely large plate capacitor and its ignition characteristic are generally used for comparison. However, the practical embodiment of such discharge paths has electrodes with finite dimensions. While it is sufficient to determine the right branch of the ignition characteristic (Paschen curve), i.e. to investigate the so-called long-range breakdown area including the voltage minimum, it is sufficient to arrange only two flat, rounded plates, optionally with a so-called Rogowski profile at the edges, parallel to one another Such a constructive arrangement for examining ignition characteristics in the left part of the Paschen curve, ie in the so-called near-breakdown area, is unusable because detours can then occur. Such detour discharges can be avoided by an electrode construction with flat plate electrodes that are coaxial to each other ordered and bent at their edges with a small radius of curvature relative to the distance between the electrodes and are guided along the inner cylindrical insulator surface. A gap is thus always formed between the bent, cylindrical edge region of the electrodes and the inner wall of the hollow cylindrical insulator. With this embodiment of a low-pressure gas discharge path, the ignition characteristic curve can also be determined, for example, for various noble and molecular gases in the near-breakdown area, ie to the left of the minimum of the Paschen curve.

Es sind auch Gasentladungsschalter bekannt, die durch eine gepulste Niederdruck-Gasentladung gesteuert werden. Sie schal­ten beispielsweise Ströme von 10 kA bei einer Spannung von 20 kV. Der Entladungsschalter enthält eine Anode und eine Kathode, die mit koaxialen Öffnungen versehen sind und am Rande durch einen ringförmigen Isolator voneinander getrennt sind. Für die Gasentladung ist eine Steuereinrichtung vorge­sehen, die eine als Käfig gestaltete Hohlelektrode enthält, die mit der Kathode elektrisch leitend verbunden ist und somit auf dem Kathodenpotential liegt. Sie umschließt den Kathodenrück­raum und trennt diesen vom Bereich einer Vorionisierung. Die Gasentladung zwischen der Kathode und der Anode wird durch Injektion von Ladungsträgern gezündet. Die Zündung der Entla­dungsstrecke erfolgt in zwei Stufen. Zunächst wird von einer Hilfselektrode eine Vorionisierung durch eine Glimmentladung erzeugt. Anschließend erhält eine Triggerelektrode einen nega­tiven Zündimpuls und der Eintritt von Ladungsträgern in die Hohlelektrode wird dadurch ermöglicht, daß das Potential einer Blockierelektrode auf Null gesetzt wird. Mit dem Eintritt der Ladungsträger in die Hohlelektrode wird die Entladung eingelei­tet (J. Phys. E: Sci. Instr. 19 (1986), The Inst. of Physics, Great Britain, Seiten 466 bis 470).Gas discharge switches are also known which are controlled by a pulsed low pressure gas discharge. For example, they switch currents of 10 kA at a voltage of 20 kV. The discharge switch contains an anode and a cathode, which are provided with coaxial openings and are separated from one another at the edge by an annular insulator. A control device is provided for the gas discharge, which contains a hollow electrode designed as a cage, which is connected to the cathode in an electrically conductive manner and is therefore at the cathode potential. It surrounds the cathode rear space and separates it from the area of pre-ionization. The gas discharge between the cathode and the anode is ignited by injection of charge carriers. The discharge path is ignited in two stages. First of all, an auxiliary electrode generates a pre-ionization by means of a glow discharge. A trigger electrode then receives a negative ignition pulse and the entry of charge carriers into the hollow electrode is made possible in that the potential of a blocking electrode is set to zero. Discharge is initiated when the charge carriers enter the hollow electrode (J. Phys. E: Sci. Instr. 19 (1986), The Inst. Of Physics, Great Britain, pages 466 to 470).

In einer weiteren bekannten Ausführungsform eines Gasentla­ dungsschalters ist eine Vielzahl von Elektroden vorgesehen, die koaxial zueinander angeordnet sind und einen gemeinsamen Entla­dungskanal bilden. Zwischen der Anode und der Kathode sind noch mehrere Zwischenelektroden angeordnet (US-Patent 2 900 566).In a further known embodiment of a gas outlet a plurality of electrodes are provided, which are arranged coaxially to one another and form a common discharge channel. Several intermediate electrodes are arranged between the anode and the cathode (US Pat. No. 2,900,566).

Der Gasentladungsschalter kann auch mehrere Entladungskanäle enthalten, die mit einer gemeinsamen Triggereinrichtung ver­sehen sind. Diese Triggereinrichtung enthält eine gemeinsame Hohlelektrode, die mit der gemeinsamen Kathode elektrisch lei­tend verbunden ist. Die synchrone Zündung der Entladungskanäle wird eingeleitet durch Ladungsträger, die aus einem Vorionisie­rungsbereich durch Löcher im Boden des Käfigs in den Kathoden­rückraum eintreten (J. Phys. E.: Sci. Instr. 20 (1987), S. 270 bis 273).The gas discharge switch can also contain a plurality of discharge channels which are provided with a common trigger device. This trigger device contains a common hollow electrode which is electrically conductively connected to the common cathode. The synchronous ignition of the discharge channels is initiated by charge carriers which enter the cathode rear space from a pre-ionization region through holes in the bottom of the cage (J. Phys. E .: Sci. Instr. 20 (1987), pp. 270 to 273).

Der Erfindung liegt nun die Aufgabe zugrunde, diese bekannte Ausführungsform eines Hohlelektrodenschalters zu vereinfachen und zu verbessern, insbesondere soll die Zündeinrichtung für den Hohlelektrodenschalter vereinfacht werden.The invention is based on the object of simplifying and improving this known embodiment of a hollow electrode switch, in particular the ignition device for the hollow electrode switch is to be simplified.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß gelöst mit dem kennzeichnen­den Merkmal des Anspruchs 1. In der Hohlelektrode wird wenig­stens eine Raumladung, vorzugsweise eine Glimmentladung, er­zeugt. In dieser Ausführungsform vereinigt die von der Bezugs­elektrode elektrisch isolierte Hohlelektrode die Funktion der Vorionisierungs- und der Triggerelektrode und eine besondere Blockierelektrode ist nicht mehr erforderlich.This object is achieved according to the invention with the characterizing feature of claim 1. At least one space charge, preferably a glow discharge, is generated in the hollow electrode. In this embodiment, the hollow electrode electrically insulated from the reference electrode combines the function of the pre-ionization and the trigger electrode and a special blocking electrode is no longer required.

Zum Erzeugen der zur Zündung der Entladungsstrecke erforderli­chen Raumladung kann beispielsweise eine Glühkathode vorgesehen sein, die zwischen der Bezugselektrode und dem Boden der Hohl­elektrode angeordnet ist. Ferner kann die Raumladung beispiels­weise auch durch Mikrowellenanregung oder durch eine optische Zündeinrichtung, insbesondere einem Laserstrahl, erzeugt wer­den.To generate the space charge required to ignite the discharge gap, for example, a hot cathode can be provided, which is arranged between the reference electrode and the bottom of the hollow electrode. The space charge can also be generated, for example, by microwave excitation or by an optical ignition device, in particular a laser beam.

Eine besonders vorteilhafte Ausführungsform des Hohlelektro­denschalters besteht darin, daß die zum Zünden der Entladungs­strecke erforderliche Raumladung durch eine Glimmentladung be­reitgestellt wird. Zu diesem Zweck kann die Hohlelektrode in einfacher Weise an eine Triggerspannungsquelle für eine nega­tive Triggerspannung mit ausreichender Energie angeschlossen sein. Die Hohlelektrode bildet die Anode und die gegenüber der Öffnung der Hohlelektrode angeordnete Bezugselektrode bildet die Kathode für die Glimmentladung.A particularly advantageous embodiment of the hollow electrode switch consists in that the space charge required to ignite the discharge gap is provided by a glow discharge. For this purpose, the hollow electrode can be connected in a simple manner to a trigger voltage source for a negative trigger voltage with sufficient energy. The hollow electrode forms the anode and the reference electrode arranged opposite the opening of the hollow electrode forms the cathode for the glow discharge.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform kann die Hohlelektrode noch an eine zusätzliche Spannungsquelle mit einem positiven Poten­tial für eine Vorionisierung angeschlossen sein. Diese Vor­ionisierung erzeugt innerhalb der Hohlelektrode eine strom­schwache Glimmentladung, die noch nicht zum Zünden der Ent­ladungsstrecke führt. Durch diese Glimmentladung wird die Spannungsfestigkeit an der Entladungsstrecke und damit die Stabilität des Schalters verbessert. Die Zündung der Entla­dungsstrecke wird dann erst durch einen überlagerten negativen Triggerimpuls mit steiler Anstiegsflanke und kurzer Dauer von der Triggerelektrode erzeugt. Die Bezugselektrode erhält eine doppelte Funktion; sie bildet zugleich eine Kathode für die Gasentladung an der Entladungsstrecke und an ihrer von der Entladungsstrecke abgewandten Rückseite eine Kathode für die Glimmentladung. In dieser Ausführungsform erhält man einen Hohlelektrodenschalter mit sehr geringer Schaltverzögerung (delay) und geringer Streuung (jitter); ferner erhält man bei diesem Hohlelektrodenschalter eine wesentlich geringere Span­nungsabhängigkeit bei gleichem Druck.In a further embodiment, the hollow electrode can also be connected to an additional voltage source with a positive potential for pre-ionization. This pre-ionization generates a low-current glow discharge within the hollow electrode, which does not yet lead to the ignition of the discharge gap. This glow discharge improves the dielectric strength at the discharge gap and thus the stability of the switch. The ignition of the discharge gap is then only generated by the superimposed negative trigger pulse with a steep rising edge and a short duration by the trigger electrode. The reference electrode has a double function; at the same time it forms a cathode for the gas discharge on the discharge gap and on its rear side facing away from the discharge gap a cathode for the glow discharge. In this embodiment, a hollow electrode switch with a very low switching delay (delay) and low scatter (jitter) is obtained; furthermore, this hollow electrode switch has a significantly lower voltage dependency at the same pressure.

Zur weiteren Erläuterung der Erfindung wird auf die Zeichnung Bezug genommen, in deren Figur 1 ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Hohlelektrodenschalters gemäß der Erfindung schematisch veran­schaulicht ist. In den Figuren 2 und 3 ist jeweils eine beson­dere Ausführungsform der Hohlelektrode dargestellt.To further explain the invention, reference is made to the drawing, in which FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a hollow electrode switch according to the invention. FIGS. 2 and 3 each show a special embodiment of the hollow electrode.

Ein Hohlelektrodenschalter gemäß Figur 1 enthält zwei Elektro­den, von denen eine als Kathode 2 und die andere als Anode 3 geschaltet sind und von denen wenigstens die Kathode 2 mit min­destens einer Öffnung 4 versehen ist. In gleicher Weise kann auch die Anode 3 mit wenigstens einer Öffnung 5 versehen sein. Durch die beiden Öffnungen 4 und 5 wird eine Entladungsstrecke 8 gezündet. Die Kathode 2 und die Anode 3, die im allgemeinen jeweils einen Rotationskörper bilden, sind in einem vorbestimm­ten Abstand zueinander angeordnet, der beispielsweise etwa 1 bis 10, vorzugsweise etwa 2 bis 5 mm, betragen kann. Zwischen den beiden Öffnungen 4 und 5 wird eine Entladungsstrecke 8 ge­zündet. Die Kathode 2 und die Anode 3 bestehen aus elektrisch leitendem Material, vorzugsweise Edelstahl, und können an der Entladungsstrecke 8 im allgemeinen noch mit besonderen Einsät­zen 6 und 7 aus einem hochschmelzenden Metall versehen sein oder auch ganz aus diesem hochschmelzendem Metall bestehen. Der Durchmesser der Bohrungen 4 und 5 wird vorzugsweise höchstens so groß und insbesondere kleiner als der Abstand d der Elektro­den 2 und 3 an der Entladungsstrecke 8 gewählt. Vorzugsweise ist die Dicke der Kathode 2 an ihrer Öffnung 4 vermindert, ins­besondere kann der obere Rand der Öffnung 4 abgeschrägt sein. Insbesondere kann auch die Dicke der Anode 3 an ihrer Öffnung 5 vermindert sein. Die Kathode 2 und die Anode 3 sind mit einem elektrisch isolierenden Trennkörper verbunden, der einen Teil der Wand einer Schaltkammer 14 bildet, der aus elektrisch isolierendem Material, vorzugsweise Keramik, besteht und mit einem Arbeitsgas gefüllt ist.A hollow electrode switch according to FIG. 1 contains two electrodes, one of which is connected as the cathode 2 and the other as the anode 3 and at least the cathode 2 is provided with at least one opening 4. In the same way, the anode 3 can also be provided with at least one opening 5. A discharge path 8 is ignited through the two openings 4 and 5. The cathode 2 and the anode 3, which generally each form a rotating body, are arranged at a predetermined distance from one another, which can be, for example, about 1 to 10, preferably about 2 to 5 mm. A discharge path 8 is ignited between the two openings 4 and 5. The cathode 2 and the anode 3 are made of electrically conductive material, preferably stainless steel, and can in general be provided on the discharge gap 8 with special inserts 6 and 7 made of a high-melting metal, or also consist entirely of this high-melting metal. The diameter of the bores 4 and 5 is preferably selected to be at most as large and in particular smaller than the distance d between the electrodes 2 and 3 on the discharge path 8. The thickness of the cathode 2 is preferably reduced at its opening 4, in particular the upper edge of the opening 4 can be chamfered. In particular, the thickness of the anode 3 at its opening 5 can also be reduced. The cathode 2 and the anode 3 are connected to an electrically insulating separating body, which forms part of the wall of a switching chamber 14, which consists of electrically insulating material, preferably ceramic, and is filled with a working gas.

Zur Triggereinrichtung für die Entladungsstrecke 8 gehört eine Hohlelektrode 10, die in der Schaltkammer 14 derart angeordnet ist, daß ihre Öffnung der Entladungsstrecke 8 zugewandt ist. Der Abstand A ihres unteren Randes vom Potential ihrer Bezugs­elektrode, das ist in dieser Ausführung mit positiver Schalt­spannung Uo von beispielsweise 40 kV die Kathode 2, ist gerin­ger als die Länge des kathodischen Dunkelraumes einer Glimm­ entladung des Arbeitsgases. Die Hohlelektrode 10 besteht aus einem elektrisch leitenden Material, beispielsweise Edelstahl, und hat wenigstens die Form einer Schale, vorzugsweise die Form eines Topfes, dessen Tiefe T größer als die Länge des kathodi­schen Dunkelraumes der Glimmentladung ist. Die Form des Topfes der Hohlelektrode 10 wird vorzugsweise so gewählt, daß das Verhältnis des Durchmessers D zur Topftiefe T etwa 0,2 bis 2, insbesondere etwa 1, beträgt. Der seitlich erweiterte Boden 11 ist mit Ausgleichsöffnungen 15 und 16 versehen, in der Wand der Schaltkammer 14 befestigt und mit einer elektrisch leitenden Verbindung durch die Wand hindurchgeführt.The trigger device for the discharge path 8 includes a hollow electrode 10 which is arranged in the switching chamber 14 in such a way that its opening faces the discharge path 8. The distance A of its lower edge from the potential of its reference electrode, which is cathode 2 in this embodiment with positive switching voltage U o of, for example, 40 kV, is less than the length of the cathodic dark space of a glow discharge of the working gas. The hollow electrode 10 consists of an electrically conductive material, for example stainless steel, and has at least the shape of a shell, preferably the shape of a pot, the depth T of which is greater than the length of the cathodic dark space of the glow discharge. The shape of the pot of the hollow electrode 10 is preferably chosen so that the ratio of the diameter D to the pot depth T is approximately 0.2 to 2, in particular approximately 1. The laterally widened base 11 is provided with compensation openings 15 and 16, fastened in the wall of the switching chamber 14 and passed through the wall with an electrically conductive connection.

Die Gasfüllung besteht aus einem ionisierbaren Gas, vorzugswei­se Wasserstoff oder Deuterium oder einer Mischung dieser Gase. Ferner geeignet ist bekanntlich Stickstoff oder Edelgase, wie beispielsweise Argon oder Helium.The gas filling consists of an ionizable gas, preferably hydrogen or deuterium or a mixture of these gases. As is well known, nitrogen or noble gases, such as argon or helium, are also suitable.

Der Hohlelektrode 10 ist eine Triggerspannungsquelle 17 zuge­ordnet, die beispielsweise über einen Begrenzungswiderstand 18 und eine Entkopplungskapazität 19 an die Hohlelektrode 10 ange­schlossen sein kann. Die Triggerspannungsquelle 17 liefert einen Triggerimpuls mit steiler Anstiegsflanke und einer nega­tiven Spannung von beispielsweise etwa 0,5 bis 10 kV, vorzugs­weise etwa 1 bis 5 kV gegenüber dem Bezugspotential der Katho­de 2, das beispielsweise Erdpotential sein kann. Die Länge des Triggerimpulses ist wenigstens so groß wie die Schaltverzöge­rung der Entladungsstrecke 8 und kann beispielsweise etwa 0,1 bis 2 µs, vorzugsweise etwa 0,5 bis 1 µs, betragen.A trigger voltage source 17 is assigned to the hollow electrode 10, which can be connected to the hollow electrode 10 via a limiting resistor 18 and a decoupling capacitance 19, for example. The trigger voltage source 17 supplies a trigger pulse with a steep rising edge and a negative voltage of, for example, approximately 0.5 to 10 kV, preferably approximately 1 to 5 kV compared to the reference potential of the cathode 2, which can be ground potential, for example. The length of the trigger pulse is at least as long as the switching delay of the discharge path 8 and can be, for example, approximately 0.1 to 2 μs, preferably approximately 0.5 to 1 μs.

Die Schaltkammer 14 enthält im allgemeinen noch einen Gasspei­cher 24 für das Arbeitsgas, beispielsweise Wasserstoff oder Deuterium oder einer Mischung dieser Gase. Dieser in der Figur lediglich schematisch angedeutete Gasspeicher 24 ist mit einer in der Figur nicht näher dargestellten Heizeinrichtung verse­hen, deren elektrische Anschlüsse durch die Wand der Schalt­ kammer 14 hindurchgeführt und mit 25 und 26 bezeichnet sind. In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform des Hohlelektrodenschalters kann das Gasreservoir des Gasspeichers 24 vorzugsweise zugleich als Druckregelungssystem für den Hohlelektrodenschalter dienen.The switching chamber 14 generally also contains a gas reservoir 24 for the working gas, for example hydrogen or deuterium or a mixture of these gases. This gas reservoir 24, which is only indicated schematically in the figure, is provided with a heating device, not shown in the figure, whose electrical connections are through the wall of the switch chamber 14 passed and are designated 25 and 26. In a preferred embodiment of the hollow electrode switch, the gas reservoir of the gas reservoir 24 can preferably also serve as a pressure control system for the hollow electrode switch.

In einer besonderen Ausführungsform des Hohlelektrodenschalters gemäß der Erfindung kann der Hohlelektrode 10 noch eine zusätz­liche Spannungsquelle 21 für eine Vorionisierung zugeordnet sein, deren positive Spannung gegenüber dem Bezugspotential der Kathode 2 beispielsweise etwa 0,1 bis 5 kV betragen kann und die über einen hohen Vorwiderstand 22 von vorzugsweise einigen MOhm an die Hohlelektrode 10 angeschlossen sein kann. Die po­sitive Spannung der Spannungsquelle 21 wird so gewählt, daß sie innerhalb der Hohlelektrode 10 eine stromschwache Glimmentla­dung im Strombereich von beispielsweise µA bis zu wenigen mA erzeugt, die noch nicht zum Durchschlag an der Entladungs­strecke 8 führt. Dieser Durchschlag wird erst mit dem Trigger­impuls der Triggerspannungsquelle 17 eingeleitet. Mit diesem Hohlelektrodenschalter, bei dem mit einer Wasserstoffüllung beispielsweise das Produkt p x d = 150 Pa mm beträgt, erhält man bei einer angelegten Spannung Uo zwischen der Kathode 2 und der Anode 3 von beispielsweise 30 kV und einer Größe der Hohl­elektrode 10 mit beispielsweise T = D = 20 mm sowie einem Vor­ionisierungsstrom Iv = 0,2 mA und einem negativen Triggerimpuls von -4,5 kV eine Schaltverzögerung (delay) von etwa 50 ns und eine Streuung (jitter), die auf etwa 1 ns begrenzt ist.In a special embodiment of the hollow electrode switch according to the invention, the hollow electrode 10 can also be assigned an additional voltage source 21 for preionization, the positive voltage of which, for example, can be approximately 0.1 to 5 kV compared to the reference potential of the cathode 2 and which has a high series resistor 22 of preferably a few Mohm can be connected to the hollow electrode 10. The positive voltage of the voltage source 21 is selected so that it generates a low-current glow discharge in the current range from, for example, μA to a few mA within the hollow electrode 10, which does not yet lead to breakdown at the discharge path 8. This breakdown is only initiated with the trigger pulse of the trigger voltage source 17. With this hollow electrode switch, in which the product pxd = 150 Pa mm, for example, with a hydrogen filling, one obtains with an applied voltage U o between the cathode 2 and the anode 3 of, for example, 30 kV and a size of the hollow electrode 10 with, for example, T = D = 20 mm and a pre-ionization current I v = 0.2 mA and a negative trigger pulse of -4.5 kV, a switching delay (delay) of approximately 50 ns and a scattering (jitter), which is limited to approximately 1 ns.

Unter Umständen kann es zweckmäßig sein, insbesondere bei sehr geringem Abstand A der Hohlelektrode 10 von der Kathode 2, im Boden 11 zusätzliche Druckausgleichsöffnungen vorzusehen. Unter Umständen kann auch die hohlzylindrische Seitenwand 12 der Hohlelektrode 10 mit solchen Druckausgleichsöffnungen versehen sein.Under certain circumstances, it may be expedient to provide additional pressure compensation openings in the base 11, in particular if the hollow electrode 10 is at a very small distance A from the cathode 2. Under certain circumstances, the hollow cylindrical side wall 12 of the hollow electrode 10 can also be provided with such pressure compensation openings.

In der dargestellten Ausführungsform gemäß Figur 1 sind die Triggerspannungsquelle 17 und die zusätzliche Spannungsquelle 21 zur Vorionisierung mit dem Boden 11 der Hohlelektrode 10 elektrisch leitend verbunden. Unter Umständen kann es jedoch zweckmäßig sein, die Triggerspannung oder die Vorionisierungs­spannung oder beide an der Seitenwand 12 der Hohlelektrode 10 zuzuführen.In the illustrated embodiment according to FIG Trigger voltage source 17 and the additional voltage source 21 for pre-ionization with the bottom 11 of the hollow electrode 10 electrically connected. Under certain circumstances, however, it may be expedient to supply the trigger voltage or the pre-ionization voltage or both on the side wall 12 of the hollow electrode 10.

In dieser Ausführungsform des Hohlelektrodenschalters mit posi­tiver Schaltspannung Uo bildet die geerdete, obere Bezugselek­trode die Kathode 2 und die untere die Anode 3. Wird eine nega­tive Schaltspannung Uo angelegt, so bildet die obere geerdete Elektrode die Anode der Entladungsstrecke 8. Unabhängig von der Polarität der Schaltspannung Uo bildet die als Kathode 2 be­zeichnete Bezugselektrode das Bezugspotential für die Trigger­spannungsquelle 17 und die Spannungsquelle 21.In this embodiment of the hollow electrode switch with positive switching voltage U o , the grounded, upper reference electrode forms the cathode 2 and the lower one forms the anode 3. If a negative switching voltage U o is applied, the upper grounded electrode forms the anode of the discharge gap 8. Regardless of the polarity of the switching voltage U o , the reference electrode referred to as cathode 2 forms the reference potential for the trigger voltage source 17 and the voltage source 21.

Im Ausführungsbeispiel ist ein Hohlelektrodenschalter be­schrieben, der nur eine einzige Kathode 2 und eine Anode 3 enthält. Es kann jedoch auch eine Vielelektrodenanordnung mit Zwischenelektroden vorgesehen sein, mit der man eine vermin­derte Feldstärke zwischen den Elektroden und eine entsprechend erhöhte Spannungsfestigkeit des Hohlelektrodenschalters erhält.In the exemplary embodiment, a hollow electrode switch is described which contains only a single cathode 2 and an anode 3. However, a multi-electrode arrangement with intermediate electrodes can also be provided, with which a reduced field strength between the electrodes and a correspondingly increased dielectric strength of the hollow electrode switch is obtained.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform enthält der Hohlelektroden­schalter eine Vielzahl von Einzelentladungsstrecken, die paral­lel zueinander angeordnet und mit einer gemeinsamen Hohlelek­trode, die von ihrer Bezugselektrode elektrisch isoliert ist und mit Mitteln zum Herstellen einer Raumladung, insbesondere einer Glimmentladung, versehen ist. Damit erhält man eine Er­höhung der Stromanstiegsrate und eine Verminderung der Schal­terinduktivität und des Schalterwiderstandes sowie eine hohe Lebensdauer und eine hohe Strombelastbarkeit.In a further embodiment, the hollow electrode switch contains a multiplicity of individual discharge paths which are arranged parallel to one another and are provided with a common hollow electrode which is electrically insulated from their reference electrode and is provided with means for producing a space charge, in particular a glow discharge. This results in an increase in the current rise rate and a reduction in the switch inductance and the switch resistance as well as a long service life and a high current carrying capacity.

In der Ausführungsform einer Hohlelektrode 10 gemäß Figur 2 ist der Boden 11 der Hohlelektrode mit einem Fortsatz 13 versehen, dessen freies Ende der Entladungsstrecke 8 zugewandt ist. Der Fortsatz 13 hat die Form eines Zylinders, bei dem die Kante des Endes abgerundet ist. Dieser Fortsatz 13 dient zur Beein­flussung der Glimmentladung, insbesondere der Verteilung der Raumladungsdichte, innerhalb der Hohlelektrode.In the embodiment of a hollow electrode 10 according to FIG. 2, the bottom 11 of the hollow electrode is provided with an extension 13, the free end of which faces the discharge path 8. The extension 13 has the shape of a cylinder, in which the edge of the end is rounded. This extension 13 serves to influence the glow discharge, in particular the distribution of the space charge density, within the hollow electrode.

Gemäß Figur 3 hat dieser Fortsatz 13 die Form eines Kegels, dessen abgerundete Spitze der Entladungsstrecke 8 zugewandt ist.According to Figure 3, this extension 13 has the shape of a cone, the rounded tip of which faces the discharge gap 8.

Claims (17)

1. Hohlelektrodenschalter mit folgenden Merkmalen: a) Es sind wenigstens zwei im Abstand d voneinander angeordnete Elektroden vorgesehen, die eine Gasentladungsstrecke bilden und in einer Schaltkammer angeordnet sind,
b) der Entladungsstrecke ist eine Triggereinrichtung zugeord­net, die eine Hohlelektrode enthält,
c) die Schaltkammer enthält eine ionisierbare Gasfüllung, deren Druck p so gewählt ist, daß die Zündspannung der Gasentla­dung mit steigendem Produkt p x d abnimmt,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß Mittel vor­gesehen sind zum Erzeugen einer Raumladung innerhalb der Hohl­elektrode (10) (Figur 1).1. Hollow electrode switch with the following features: a) at least two electrodes are provided at a distance d from one another, which form a gas discharge path and are arranged in a switching chamber,
b) the discharge path is assigned a trigger device which contains a hollow electrode,
c) the switching chamber contains an ionizable gas filling, the pressure p of which is selected such that the ignition voltage of the gas discharge decreases with increasing product pxd,
characterized in that means are provided for generating a space charge within the hollow electrode (10) (Figure 1). 2. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine der Elektroden (Ka­thode 2) als Bezugselektrode für eine Glimmentladung innerhalb der Hohlelektrode (10) vorgesehen und von der Hohlelektrode (10) elektrisch isoliert ist, die als Anode für die Glimment­ladung vorgesehen ist.2. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 1, characterized in that one of the electrodes (cathode 2) is provided as a reference electrode for a glow discharge within the hollow electrode (10) and is electrically insulated from the hollow electrode (10), which is provided as an anode for the glow discharge. 3. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Hohlelektrode (10) mit einer Triggerspannungsquelle (17) für einen negativen Steuerimpuls elektrisch leitend verbunden ist.3. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 2, characterized in that the hollow electrode (10) is electrically conductively connected to a trigger voltage source (17) for a negative control pulse. 4. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Hohlelektrode (10) über einen Entkopplungswiderstand (18) und eine Entkopplungskapazi­tät (19) an die Triggerspannungsquelle (17) angeschlossen ist.4. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 3, characterized in that the hollow electrode (10) via a decoupling resistor (18) and a decoupling capacitance (19) is connected to the trigger voltage source (17). 5. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Hohlelektrode (10) an einen Triggertransformator angeschlossen ist.5. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 3, characterized in that the hollow electrode (10) is connected to a trigger transformer. 6. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß zusätzliche Mittel vorge­sehen sind zum Erzeugung einer Vorionisierung innerhalb der Hohlelektrode (10).6. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 2, characterized in that additional means are provided for generating a pre-ionization within the hollow electrode (10). 7. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Hohlelektrode (10) über einen Entkopplungswiderstand (22) an eine Spannungsquelle (21) für eine positive Gleichspannung angeschlossen ist.7. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 6, characterized in that the hollow electrode (10) is connected via a decoupling resistor (22) to a voltage source (21) for a positive DC voltage. 8. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 1, gekenn­zeichnet durch eine Topfform der Hohlelektrode (10).8. Hollow-electrode switch according to claim 1, characterized by a pot shape of the hollow electrode (10). 9. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Verhältnis des Durch­messers D zur Topftiefe T im Bereich 0,2 bis 2 gewählt ist.9. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 8, characterized in that the ratio of the diameter D to the pot depth T is selected in the range 0.2 to 2. 10. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Verhältnis des Durch­messers D zur Topftiefe T etwa 1 beträgt.10. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 9, characterized in that the ratio of the diameter D to the pot depth T is approximately 1. 11. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß wenigstens die Dicke der Bezugselektrode (Kathode 2) an ihrer Öffnung (4) vermindert ist.11. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 2, characterized in that at least the thickness of the reference electrode (cathode 2) at its opening (4) is reduced. 12. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der der Hohlelektrode (10) zugewandte Rand der Öffnung (4) der Bezugselektrode (Kathode 2) mit einer Abschrägung versehen ist.12. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 11, characterized in that the edge of the opening (4) of the reference electrode (cathode 2) facing the hollow electrode (10) is provided with a bevel. 13. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Boden (11) der Hohl­elektrode (10) mit einem Fortsatz (13) versehen ist.13. Hollow electrode switch according to claim 2, characterized in that the bottom (11) of the hollow electrode (10) is provided with an extension (13). 14. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 13, gekenn­zeichnet durch eine Zylinderform des Fortsatzes (13), dessen der Entladungsstrecke (8) zugewandtes Ende mit einer ab­gerundeten Kante versehen ist (Figur 2).14. Hollow-electrode switch according to claim 13, characterized by a cylindrical shape of the extension (13) of which the discharge path is provided (8) facing the end with a rounded edge (Figure 2). 15. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 13, gekenn­zeichnet durch eine Kegelform des Fortsatzes (13), dessen abgerundete Spitze der Entladungsstrecke (8) zugewandt ist (Figur 3).15. Hollow-electrode switch according to claim 13, characterized by a conical shape of the extension (13) whose rounded tip facing the discharge path (8) (Figure 3). 16. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, ge­kennzeichnet durch eine Vielelektrodenanordnung mit Zwischenelektroden und einem gemeinsamen Entladungskanal, für den die Hohlelektrode vorgesehen ist.16. Hollow-electrode switch according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a multi-electrode arrangement having intermediate electrodes and a common discharge channel, the hollow electrode is provided for. 17. Hohlelektrodenschalter nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, ge­kennzeichnet durch eine Vielzahl von Einzelentla­dungsstrecken, die parallel zueinander angeordnet und mit einer gemeinsamen Hohlelektrode versehen sind, die von ihrer Bezugs­elektrode elektrisch isoliert ist.17. Hollow-electrode switch according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a plurality of individual discharge gaps which are arranged parallel to each other and provided with a common hollow electrode which is electrically insulated from its reference electrode.
EP89123566A 1989-12-20 1989-12-20 Hollow electrode switch Expired - Lifetime EP0433480B1 (en)

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JP2411227A JPH04109581A (en) 1989-12-20 1990-12-17 Hollow electrode switch
US07/857,722 US5159243A (en) 1989-12-20 1992-03-26 Hollow electrode switch

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DE4214362A1 (en) * 1992-04-30 1993-11-04 Siemens Ag Gas discharge switch - comprising two main electrodes in switching chamber, cathode having opening for igniting discharge
DE4218479A1 (en) * 1992-06-04 1993-12-09 Siemens Ag Low-pressure gas-discharge switch - places auxiliary electrode around discharge gap and connects to intermediate voltage source for radially directing field to housing wall.
DE4240198C1 (en) * 1992-11-30 1994-03-24 Siemens Ag Low pressure gas discharge switch - has circular electrode apertures at ends of gas discharge path
DE4306038A1 (en) * 1993-02-26 1994-09-08 Siemens Ag Gas-discharge switch
DE4306036A1 (en) * 1993-02-26 1994-09-08 Siemens Ag Gas-discharge switch
DE19753695C1 (en) * 1997-12-03 1999-07-15 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Gas discharge switch for switching electrical currents with high current levels at high voltages

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EP0433480B1 (en) 2000-04-12
JPH04109581A (en) 1992-04-10
DE58909869D1 (en) 2000-05-18
US5159243A (en) 1992-10-27

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