Electrical and Computer Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

Spark gap switching has been used extensively in the field of pulsed power for their significant voltage and current capabilities, but the study of their repetition rate has largely been an unorganized exploration. The reason is a rather vast parameter space of connected variables making ideal comparison cumbersome and often times, impossible. The study is also plagued with antiquated testing standards having gone unquestioned for decades. Their results unrealized during replication for operational environments. The effort below seeks to identify the parameters governing the repetition rate of spark gap switches in the DC-charge, self-breakdown instance, as well as suggesting alternative measurement, collection, and presentation techniques while breaking down the shortcomings of traditional methods through experimentation. Additionally, the voltage pressure relationship of breakdown from purely gaseous to deep within the super-critical phase region will be discussed for a variety of elements. The project will conclude with proposed design considerations for maximizing switch repetition rate and voltage-current capability using the body of literature and the results of isolated parameter analysis conducted over the course of the project.

Keywords

Spark gaps, Repetitive switching, PRR, DC-Charge, Static Pressure

Project Sponsors

Office of Naval Research (ONR)

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Electrical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Jane Lehr

Second Committee Member

Edl Schamiloglu

Third Committee Member

Jon Pouncey

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Available for download on Tuesday, May 16, 2028

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