Electrical and Computer Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-16-2021

Abstract

Spark gaps have always been a good solution for high power switching. They are simple, cheap, handle a large amount of Coulomb transfer, and are more forgiving to work with compared to solid-state alternatives. Even with solid-state switching advancing a long way since the 20th century, spark gaps outperform them in terms of peak power handling capabilities, Coulomb transfer, and make them attractive for higher power systems. Most lab settings use spark gaps because the cost is low, and they can be repaired if they break or wear out as opposed to a semiconductor alternative. While this technology is great for the lab, little work has been done to move these high-power spark gaps out of the lab and into the real world, which introduces new problems and concerns. This thesis investigates some of these problems, along with testing new approaches to a sealed switch design.

Keywords

spark gaps, sealed switch, high power switching, compact pulsed power

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Electrical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Edl Schamiloglu

Second Committee Member

Dr. Jane Lehr

Third Committee Member

Dr. Mark Gilmore

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