Electrical breakdown in transformer oil in large gaps [Aurora accelerator]

The Aurora accelerator uses four parallel Blumlein pulse-forming lines to provide an intense flash X-ray pulse. Proper timing of the pulses generated by each Blumlein is important to the quality of the radiation. The pulse on each Blumlein and the synchronization between the Blumleins are affected by the closure of high-voltage triggered oil switches in each line. The triggered oil switch utilizes a uniform field geometry with a gap spacing between 40 and 50 cm, a unique environment for observation of arc development in transformer oil. High-speed photography of switch closure shows timing to be influenced by the initiation and spatial development of prebreakdown streamers