Adding Bias Voltage to HV Generator - HV Circuit Solutions

In summary, the conversation discusses adding a bias voltage to a high voltage (HV) generator that puts out 10 kV pulses. The participants consider using a parallel DC source with a diode or an RL leg, with a choke or resistor chain, to protect the DC source from the kV pulse. They also discuss using a DC supply with a parallel ceramic capacitor to attenuate the spike energy and eventually gating the bias circuit. The conversation also touches on using a special transformer or a ferrite ring to create a DC bias circuit and the possibility of DC biasing the other end of the equipment.
  • #1
ArchieDave
15
0
Hello all. I have a HV generator that puts out ~200 nsec, 10 kV pulses. I'd like to add a bias voltage to this but I'm not sure how this is normally done. If I add a parallel DC source I could use a diode to protect the DC source from the kV pulse, but I can't seem to find kV rated diodes that can pass several amps (the current I need to pull through the bias leg). So should I add an RL leg such that the time constant is much greater than the pulse width? I would like to eventually gate the bias circuit as well.
 
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  • #2
No diode is necessary.
To bias the circuit you can use a DC supply with a parallel ceramic capacitor sufficient to attenuate the spike energy.
Connect the DC supply, through a high voltage RF choke or a resistor chain, to the load and spike output.
 
  • #3
ArchieDave said:
Hello all. I have a HV generator that puts out ~200 nsec, 10 kV pulses. I'd like to add a bias voltage to this but I'm not sure how this is normally done. If I add a parallel DC source I could use a diode to protect the DC source from the kV pulse, but I can't seem to find kV rated diodes that can pass several amps (the current I need to pull through the bias leg). So should I add an RL leg such that the time constant is much greater than the pulse width? I would like to eventually gate the bias circuit as well.

What the heck is that generator used for?
 
  • #4
Baluncore - Thanks. I don't want to suppress the spike from the load so I can't just add a snubber, so you're saying I need to add a choke between the load and the added parallel capacitor. To my knowledge, a choke is a type of inductor. If so, the RL time constant needs to be greater than the duration of the spike. Is this correct?

berkeman - I can control the rise time of the HV output and I'm wanting to study breakdown in a gap as a function of the rise time. So I won't to keep the spike and add a bias across the load, which is a low pressure air gap that will break down and behavior as a fairly stable resistance.
 
  • #5
Could you make up a DC bias circuit, with its own (special) supply transformer, wound with loads of isolation. If you literally need a Bias with very few mA, this could be not too hard to make with a ferrite ring. Same idea as a TV LOPT.

How many volts do you need and for how long? Did you consider doing it with batteries?

Some people really want to play with lethal stuff, don't they?
 
  • #6
Here is attachment.
 

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  • #7
Baluncore said:
Here is attachment.

The series system would be good (I actually sketched exactly that in my mind as I read the OP) as long as you can stand the HV generator up like that. Which is why I wanted to know what actual bias volts were needed. It would not be unsafe to operate the HV source at a few volts above ground but 200V could be a problem.

Just a thought - would it be possible to DC bias the Other End of the equipment? That might simplify matters.
 
  • #8
sophiecentaur said:
Just a thought - would it be possible to DC bias the Other End of the equipment? That might simplify matters.
Yes, that is the series arrangement but with the order of the load and pulse generator reversed.
The DC bias generator still needs a ceramic capacitor capable of handling the pulse.
Maybe a fast “gas discharge surge arrestor” could take some of the pulse off the ceramic cap.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surge_protector#Response_time
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surge_protector#Gas_discharge_tube_.28GDT.29
 
  • #9
I meant that the other end of the final load could be biased, rather than be grounded. ( but it would depend in the actual details whether tat approach could be practicable.
 
  • #10
Sophiecentaur. If you draw your schematic arrangement you will see it to be the same series arrangement, but with a different order of connection. The DC supply has the same requirements either way. It comes down to generator and load isolation requirements.
 
  • #11
Baluncore. Thanks for the clarification. I'll see if I can work out the specs for the components I need and check availability. The series option isn't something I would have thought of.

Thanks to all for discussion.
 
  • #12
Baluncore said:
Sophiecentaur. If you draw your schematic arrangement you will see it to be the same series arrangement, but with a different order of connection. The DC supply has the same requirements either way. It comes down to generator and load isolation requirements.

The DC supply could be earthed at either end of the chain, true. But it may be more convenient to have the 'target' end at an elevated voltage than the pulse generator. There could be a significant difference so the option is worth submitting as a possibility.
 

1. What is bias voltage?

Bias voltage is a constant voltage that is applied to a circuit in order to shift its operating point, making it more sensitive to certain input signals.

2. Why is bias voltage important in HV generators?

Bias voltage is important in HV generators because it allows for better control over the output voltage and helps to reduce unwanted noise or distortion in the signal.

3. How is bias voltage added to an HV generator?

Bias voltage can be added to an HV generator by using a separate power supply or by using a biasing circuit, which typically consists of resistors, capacitors, and diodes.

4. What are the benefits of adding bias voltage to an HV generator?

Adding bias voltage to an HV generator can improve the stability and accuracy of the output signal, reduce distortion, and increase the sensitivity of the circuit.

5. Are there any risks associated with adding bias voltage to an HV generator?

Yes, there are some risks associated with adding bias voltage to an HV generator, such as potential damage to the circuit if the bias voltage is too high or incorrect. It is important to carefully follow the specifications and guidelines when adding bias voltage to an HV generator.

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