Simulation investigations on discharge process of a pseudospark switch in series with a magnetic switch

Abstract

The conduction loss of the pseudospark switch (PSS) can be reduced by connecting the magnetic switch (MS) and PSS in series to form the magnetically delayed pseudospark switch (MDPSS). In this paper, a 2D electrostatic Particle in Cell/Monte Carlo Collision simulation model of MDPSS coupled with the external circuit is established, and the discharge process and characteristics are studied. It is found that the forward conduction process of the MDPSS can be divided into four stages. The first stage is characterized by the rapid drop of anode voltage, and the discharge mechanism is mainly the collision ionization of seed electrons. In the second stage, the anode voltage increases slowly, which is mainly maintained by secondary electrons emitted by ions impacting the cathode. The third stage marks the beginning of MS saturation, accompanied by the rapid rise of anode voltage and loop current, as well as the rapid strengthening of the sheath electric field in the cavity, thus inducing the fourth stage, that is, the complete conduction of PSS. The duration of hollow cathode discharge will be prolonged by increasing the number of magnetic cores, thus further reducing the total conduction loss of the switch.