Compact, high-current radial pseudospark switch

A compact, high-current pseudospark switch with radial discharge gap and annular trigger slit has been developed, which is suitable for pulse durations of tens of microseconds and peak currents of up to 100 kA. Using homogeneously distributed plasma ignition, improved insulator shielding and a permanent magnetic field in addition to an azimuthal self-magnetic field, encouraging results with respect to lifetime have been obtained.