The development of triggered spark-gaps for high-power modulators

A description is given of the development of rotary spark-gaps and triggered spark-gaps, and their application in high-power modulation circuits. The characteristics of such gaps for different pulse energies and pulse recurrence rates are discussed for gaps in open air, in compressed air and in other gases. A detailed account is given of the influence of gas filling and electrode material on the performance of the sealed triggered spark-gap or Trigatron, with particular reference to the results observed in high-pressure argon-oxygen mixtures.