Expansion of initiating cloud into main gap of trigatron

Designs of initiating electrode systems are discussed, with attention given to conditions for the generation of the initiating cloud in relation to parameters of the initiating spark, the value and polarity of voltage between the main electrodes, pressure in the trigatron before initiation, and the preparation of electrodes (degassed or saturated with H/sub 2/ or N/sub 2/). The role of gasifying initiating insulation in the initiating process is pointed out. Minimal voltages and switching delay times of the trigatron were determined. Gasdynamic analysis shows that the displacement time of the initiating air stream varies from about 5 to 13 mu s. Due to the actual conditions of expanding initiating cloud and its parameters, the measured trigatron switching delay times are shorter and amount to from 200 ns to 2 mu s.<>