Simulation study of a new inverse-pinch high Coulomb transfer switch

A simulation study of a simplified model of a high coulomb transfer switch is performed. The switch operates in an inverse pinch geometry formed by an all metal chamber, which greatly reduces hot spot formations on the electrode surfaces. Advantages of the switch over the conventional switches are longer useful life, higher current capability and lower inductance, which improves the characteristics required for a high repetition rate switch. The simulation determines the design parameters by analytical computations and comparison with the experimentally measured risetime, current handling capability, electrode damage, and hold-off voltages. The parameters of initial switch design can be determined for the anticipated switch performance. Results are in agreement with the experiment results. Although the model is simplified, the switch characteristics such as risetime, current handling capability, electrode damages, and hold-off voltages are accurately determined.