High action gas switches

High action, high voltage closing switches are the key components of pulsed power systems based on high energy capacitor banks, primarily used for high power lasers, electromagnetic accelerators, high pulsed magnetic field facilities, crushing materials, and electromagnetic compatibility tests. There are several options for closing switches, including ignitrons, vacuum switches, pseudo-spark switches, solid-state switches, and high pressure gas switches (spark gaps). Spark switches are currently the most used due to their relatively simple design, reliability, and ease of maintenance and repair. The main disadvantage of spark gaps is a limited lifetime, which is directly or indirectly related to the erosion of the electrodes. To prevent erosion of the electrodes, multichannel switches and switches with movement of the discharge channel were proposed. In this Review, both types of switches are considered.