A series resonant converter for arc striking applications

Initiation of a plasma conduction state requires a relatively large voltage to ionise the gas. A new version of the series resonant power converter is identified which uses the magnetising inductance of the transformer for resonance. This power converter is not suitable for most power supply applications, but the unique load characteristics associated with plasma loads make this type of power converter well suited for arc striking, while allowing safe operation during the plasma state. Both these power converter characteristics are obtained with minimum controller complexity. The series resonant power converter is verified experimentally in a tungsten inert gas welding application.<
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