GB988777A - Make switch for fast electrical discharge - Google Patents

Abstract

988,777. Discharge apparatus. UNITED KINGDOM ATOMIC ENERGY AUTHORITY. Jan. 4, 1963 [Jan. 9, 1962], No. 799/62. Heading H1X. [Also in Division H3] A switch, for establishing a conducting path between positive and negative electrodes, comprises a solid dielectric material adapted to be inserted between the electrodes, the material being provided with a channel which extends in a direction from one electrode to the other and terminates at a predetermined point within the material, the shape of the channel at the point being adapted to increase electrical stress thereat when electrical stress is applied to the material and to produce electrical breakdown of the material. As shown, Fig. 2, a plurality of channels are provided. The switch is preferably used in a strip transmission line 8, 9, Fig. 5, having an intermediate electrode 17 disposed between two sheets of dielectric material 1, 18 both having a plurality of channels 2, 19. In operation, electrode 17 is held at a potential intermediate that applied to electrodes 8, 9 such that the breakdown electrical field of the dielectric is not exceeded. By applying a transient pulse to electrode 17 of such strength that the gap between, e.g. electrodes 17, 8 is triggered, the increased stress now occurring between 17, 9 will be sufficient to trigger the gap between 17, 9, and a discharge will result between electrodes 8, 9. Electrode 17 is preferably connected by a lead having a sufficient inductance so that a small current flows therealong under the action of the discharge. Specification 988,778 is referred to.