Output switch for a megavolt electron beam generator

Abstract

An improved gas output switch for a 12 Ω, 1.2 MV electron beam generator has been developed. The previous design used a cast epoxy switch housing with an embedded field shaper electrode. The original switch design was difficult to fabricate without defects in the casting, and several replacements failed during operation. The new design employs machined acrylic pieces instead of cast epoxy, and a glycol cavity surrounds the field shaper. Electric fields around the field shaper are therefore considerably lower. The present switch has demonstrated greater reliability and superior performance.