Paper M–1: Quenching Spark Gaps as Trigger Elements in High-Speed Cinematography

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Publisher: SMPTE — White Plains, NY, USA
Doc Type: Journal Article
Content Type: Original Research
Abbreviated Title: J SMPTE
Volume: 71, No. 1A, pp. 469–472
Abstract: Quenching spark gaps are comparatively simple and reliable devices for precision control of high-voltage pulses with great energy, particularly when operating at extremely high frequencies. Research was carried out into the parameters of pulse energy, pulsing rate, numbers and shapes of discs and gaseous filing. Among others, results showed that one pair of discs can stand a load of approximately 350 v. A quenching spark gap consisting of 25 discs therefore permits triggering of voltages up to 9 kv. The controllable frequency likewise increases with the number of discs. Thus it is possible to control a 50-kc/sec frequency with a 25-disc quenching spark gap. When operating on the uncontrolled free-run principle, quenching spark gaps can even trigger considerably higher frequencies. A 25-disc gap thus reaches frequencies of up to 300 kc/sec. Even with such uncontrolled discharges a precise start and stop of, say, a flashburst can be ensured by means of heavy-duty thyratrons, one in series with the charging resistor and one short-circuiting the quenching spark gap after a delay. Pure hydrogen or helium proved to be most suitable for the gas filling, and with these gases, copper discs at a spacing of 0.15 to 0.2 mm gave best results. The life of the discs depends on the degree of surface cratering. However as the quenching spark gap is demountable, one or several redressings of the electrode discs are possible. A cathode is not employed in this system, so there is no limitation of peak current, but only a thermal load limit which is computed according to specific temperature, mass of material and cooling coefficient of the filling gas. Thus, the quenching spark gap has a wide field of application as a trigger element of low resistance for high-frequency, high-energy pulses for feeding spark discharge lamps, air sparks or pulse transformers, etc.
Publication Date: 1962-01-01
DOI: 10.5594/J18176XY
ISSN: Print: 0361-4573
Link: https://doi.org/10.5594/J18176XY
Author(s): Frank Frungel
Walter Thorwart
Copyright: © 1962 Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, Inc.

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Frank Frungel and Walter Thorwart; Paper M–1: Quenching Spark Gaps as Trigger Elements in High-Speed Cinematography, Journal of the SMPTE ( Volume: 71, Issue: 1A, 1962); SMPTE, 1962. Available at https://doi.org/10.5594/J18176XY

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Frank Frungel and Walter Thorwart; Paper M–1: Quenching Spark Gaps as Trigger Elements in High-Speed Cinematography, Journal of the SMPTE ( Volume: 71, Issue: 1A, 1962); SMPTE, 1962. Available at https://doi.org/10.5594/J18176XY

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<span class="citation">Frank Frungel and Walter Thorwart; <cite>Paper M–1: Quenching Spark Gaps as Trigger Elements in High-Speed Cinematography</cite>, Journal of the SMPTE ( Volume: 71, Issue: 1A, 1962); SMPTE, 1962. Available at <a href="https://doi.org/10.5594/J18176XY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://doi.org/10.5594/J18176XY</a></span>

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<li>
Frank Frungel and Walter Thorwart; <cite id="bib-10-5594-j18176xy">Paper M–1: Quenching Spark Gaps as Trigger Elements in High-Speed Cinematography</cite>, Journal of the SMPTE ( Volume: 71, Issue: 1A, 1962); SMPTE, 1962
<span class="doi">10.5594/J18176XY</span>
</li>