《Anode modes in vacuum arcs》.pdf

382 IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and ElecfricalInsulafion Vol.4No. 4, Augusf 1997 Anode Modes in Vacuum Arcs H. Craig Miller Bellevue. WA ABSTRACT This paper reviews the five different anode discharge modes which can occur in a vacuum arc. These modes are diffuse arc (low current, with or without anode sputtering), footpoint (intermediate current), and anode spot or intense arc (high current). Descriptions of the vari- ous modes are presented, based primarily on experimental results. The hot anode vacuum arc mode, which occurs only with thermally isolated anodes, is also described. The effects of exter- nal magnetic fields on anode modes are briefly stated. Cathode modes and arc column modes are also discussed, primarily as they correspond to anode modes. 1. INTRODUCTION of the boundaries between the different regions depend strongly up- on the electrode material, the electrode and gap geometry, and the cur- HEmain emphasis in this review is on the different modes of ex- rent waveform. For example, more refractory electrode materials would istence of vacuum arcs at the anode, especially describing the ap-