Progress in Plasma Processing of Materials, 1997

ISBN Print: 1-56700-093-2

On generalization of electric field strength in longitudinally blown arcs

DOI: 10.1615/ITPPC-1996.170
pages 133-140

Abstract

Generalization of average electric field strength for different discharge conditions in longitudinally blown arcs is considered. Experimental data for distinctive devices and different gases are used for physical modelling. Analysis has shown that heat transfer processes are responsible for I−E characteristic formation. Turbulent heat transfer was found to be the most effective for atmospheric pressure discharges while convection plays the main role in vacuum arcs. A generalized I−E characteristic is obtained.