Axially resolved PEOS measurements at microsecond conduction times

Plasma erosion opening switch conduction phase studies. at microsecond conduction times and both 200 and 800 kA current levels, are reported here. Similar data were obtained from both experiments. A current channel is seen to propagate toward the load, and this channel is associated with an increased ion current and cathode and switch plasma luminosity. There is evidence of local opening during the conduction phase. which may be related to hydrodynamic effects.