A novel compact high voltage triggerable switch

A compact triggerable single-shot high voltage switch has been developed using a pyromechanical piston as the actuator for use at voltage levels up to 50 kV. This paper outlines the design of the switch, its electrical performance and some observations regarding the switching behaviour. Pyromechanisms are devices in which fast acting mechanical action is obtained from rapid burning of explosive propellant. Examples include gas generators for car air bags, explosive bolts and cable cutters. In order to develop a low cost switch the pyromechanism used was a small standard commercial product. The pyromechanism is fired by applying a current of 0.9 amps or greater to the initiator. The pyromechanisms used here are classified as nonexplosive by the HSE