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AssigneeElectric Power Research Institute, Inc.
InventorsEdward J. Britt, Gary O. Fitzpatrick, Lorin K. Hansen, Mario Rabinowitz
Estimating the term…
A thermionic fault current limiter utilizes either a vacuum or plasma environment for a plurality of spaced conduction electrodes. The electrode can be supported by insulative spacers with the electrode providing shadow shields for the supporting spacers. Electrode spacing, power density, temperature gradients, and control grids can be utilized for optimum operation and in establishing self-absorption of energy for a desired operating environment. Cesium desorption from the electrode surfaces can be utilized to enhance current termination.
A thermionic fault current limiter comprising a vacuum tight enclosure, a plurality of conductive electrodes, means for insulatively supporting said electrodes in said enclosure in generally spaced alignment, a first electrical conductor insulatively mounted through said housing and in contact with a first of said electrodes, a second electrical conductor insulatively mounted through said enclosure and in contact with another of said electrodes, and heater means for heating said electrodes.
A plasma thermionic fault current limiter comprising a housing, a plurality of conductive electrodes, means for insulatively supporting said electrodes in said housing in generally spaced alignment, a first electrical conductor insulatively mounted through said housing and in contact with a first of said electrodes, a second electrical conductor insulatively mounted through said housing and in contact with a second of said electrodes, vaporizable material within said housing, and heater means for heating said electrodes and vaporizing said material.
In a thermionic emission fault current limiter including a housing and a plurality of electrodes therein, a method of reducing as well as limiting fault currents comprising the step of thermal desorption of adsorbed gas on the electrodes whereby said electrodes emit less current.
In a thermionic emission fault current limiter including a housing and a plurality of electrodes therein, a method of reducing as well as limiting fault currents comprising the step of reducing the plasma density so space charge instabilities obstruct the interelectrode current.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.