Phenomena of Multiarc Roots and Parallel Arcs in a Large-Scale Magnetically Rotating Arc Plasma Generator

Multiarc roots on the anode and parallel arcs occur in a magnetically rotating arc plasma generator. Appearance of these multiarc roots on the anode was once attributed to either arc shunting or parallel arcs. However, it has been observed that they all originate from dispersed arc plasmas (DAPs) in large-scale magnetically rotating arc plasma generators. Parallel dual arcs begin with the formation of contracted arc roots which then contract and grow in the DAP. There can be up to six multiarc roots on the anode. The coexistence time of parallel dual arcs is generally about 2-3 ms, and the maximum duration time is 9 ms. The characteristics of these multiarc roots and parallel arcs, such as their external parameters, configuration, luminosity, and arc voltage, are discussed throughout their generation, evolution, and extinguishment phases.