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Pulsed metallic-plasma generators.A pulsed metallic-plasma generator is described which utilizes a vacuum arc as the plasma source. The arc is initiated on the surface of a consumable cathode which can be any electrically conductive material. Ignition is accomplished by using a current pulse to vaporize a portion of a conductive film on the surface of an insulator separating the cathode from the ignition electrode. The film is regenerated during the ensuing arc. Over 100 million ignition cycles have been accomplished by using four 0.125-in. diameter zinc cathodes operating in parallel and high-density aluminum-oxide insulators. Among the applications being investigated for the generator are metal deposition, vacuum pumping, electric propulsion, and high-power dc arc interruption.
Document ID
19720056115
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Gilmour, A. S., Jr.
Lockwood, D. L.
(New York, State University Amherst, N.Y., United States)
Date Acquired
August 6, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1972
Publication Information
Publication: IEEE
Subject Category
Physics, Plasma
Accession Number
72A39781
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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