Simulating Dynamic Triggering for Spark Gap Switches*

In LTD technology, high-pressure spark gap switches are vital to creating triggering events on the nanosecond timescale. While this architecture requires many switches to function synchronously in parallel, present designs have shown limitations, mostly due to their lack of specification toward LTD's. These limitations include high inductance and excessive etching on the electrodes of the switch. To reduce the overall inductance in and minimize maintenance on HADES (High Amperage Driver for Extreme States), we have designed a spark gap, ball switch that addresses these disadvantages. COMSOL studies (2-D and 3-D) of dynamic triggering events (DC and Pulsed) at $+$/- 100 kV are used to investigate potential current paths inside of the switch cavity. Our COMSOL studies will inform changes to our design before testing our switches in a multi-brick system.