Numerical simulation of runaway electrons generation in sulfur hexafluoride

Abstract

The results of the numerical simulation of the generation of runaway electrons in sulfur hexafluoride are presented. It is shown that the emission of the runaway electrons occurs from the cathode and its vicinity. The generation of these electrons is terminated because of the formation primarily by negative ions of a virtual cathode which causes the field emission to be screened. The simulations showed that the virtual cathode consists mainly of negative ions and cannot be an effective source of runaway electrons. In addition, the results of the simulations showed that the parameters of the runaway electrons depend on the amplitude and rise-time high-voltage pulse and gas pressure.