High power pseudospark switches for pulsed power

The results of operating tests of high-current pseudospark switches TDI1-150k/25 and TDI1-50k/16 in comparison with mercury ignitrons IRT-6 being operated in high duty cycle of magneforming machines with energy of up to 10 kJ, operating voltage 1÷17 kV, peak currents 3÷200 kA are presented. TDI1-150k/25 thyratrons are characterized as stable and reliable switches for high currents. Self-inductance of the thyratrons is considerably lower than for ignitrons and is estimated to be in the range of 20-30 nH. The TDI1-150k/25 switches are capable to withhold high overcurrents of 150-200 kA at oscillation frequency over 100 kHz in single-pulse mode. In the course of experiments two TDI1-150k/25 were simultaneously operated onto a common load. Compact thyratrons TDI1-50k/16 are recommended for use in mobile 3 kJ magneforming installations (MFI). Design of the thyratron is performed in order to provide low-inductive connection of MFI discharge circuit and can be easily adapted to the existing models of MFI. The PSSs do have doubtless advantages if compared with ignitrons and are recommended to be the elements to replace mercury devices in MFI of low and average capacity, especially for oscillation frequency of over 100 kHz, as well as in compact and mobile packages.