Accession Number:

AD0711558

Title:

HIGH VOLTAGE BREAKDOWN STUDY

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 16 Nov 1964-15 Nov 1969

Corporate Author:

ION PHYSICS CORP BURLINGTON MA

Personal Author(s):

• Mulcahy, Michael J.
• Bolin, Philip C.
• Bell, William R.
• Denholm, A. S.
• McCoy, F. J.

Report Date:

1970-06-01

Pagination or Media Count:

252.0

Abstract:

There is a need for very high voltage vacuum tubes for certain high power radar systems. Unfortunately, serious problems are experienced in operating tubes reliably at the required voltage, which can be as high as 300 KV or more. For example, klystrons of the modulated anode type, where direct voltage has to be supported, are particularly prone to breakdown within the vacuum envelope. There seems to be little information on the precise nature of the problem. This is partly because usual method of packaging high power tubes and the radiation they produce makes difficult the visual observation of the discharge. Deductions about the problem appear to be essentially of the post mortem nature i.e., from breakdown damage. However, it is clear that both vacuum gap breakdown and internal insulator flashover can occur. The program has been directed to the study and solution of the problem of breakdown within high power tubes to 300 kV. During the course of the study, visits to and discussions with tube manufacturers have confirmed the complexity and practical consequences of the problem of vacuum gap breakdown and insulator flashover and puncture.

Descriptors:

• *RADAR EQUIPMENT
• *KLYSTRONS
• MAGNETIC FIELDS
• TEST METHODS
• CONTAMINATION
• THERMAL STRESSES
• FAILURE(ELECTRONICS)
• RELIABILITY(ELECTRONICS)
• VOLTAGE
• VACUUM APPARATUS

Subject Categories:

• Electrical and Electronic Equipment
• Active and Passive Radar Detection and Equipment

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE