Facility for non-LTE studies of a magnetically rotated arc

Abstract

A facility is described for the spectroscopic diagnostics of an electric arc in a rotating magnetic field. The magnetic field is used to convert the arc into a ‘‘surface of revolution’’ which internally provides a more uniform and controllable plasma for particle treatment or plasma chemistry applications. The magnetic field also enhances the spectral lines indicating a non-LTE condition. A high-frequency, two phase amplifier and phase shifter are used to generate the rotating mag- netic field in the coil. Present operating conditions are 0–300 G at 500–2000 Hz and 100–1000 A.