Investigation of causes leading to dielectric flashover in a laser triggered gas switch

Summary form only given. In support of Sandia pulsed power efforts, we are beginning a study of dielectric flashover in a laser triggered gas switch. The goal of this study is to determine important factors leading to flashover in a laser triggered gas switch (LTGS) filled with SF₆. The University of Missouri - terawatt test stand is testing a rim fire LTGS housing to understand and improve the flashover characteristics of these switches. A rim fire LTGS was modified to mimic normal operating conditions of the trigger section of a switch tested on Z20. The modified switch was tested repeatedly over a range of pressures to acquire insulator flashover statistics. The switch was then altered and tested under various conditions to try to improve the flashover characteristics of the trigger section. The aspects of the switch that were identified for testing include, but were not limited to, geometry of the insulator, switch cleaning procedure, field shaping and type of insulator. An analysis of the findings of this study is presented