Emission Spectroscopic Diagnosis of 2-D Particle Distribution in Vacuum Arcs Under Different Currents

Spectroscopic observation serves as a crucial tool for vacuum arc diagnosis. However, spectrometers often rely on a narrow slit for light collection, limiting spectral information to a single dimension along the slit. To address this limitation, an emission spectroscopy diagnostic system was developed, utilizing a specialized optical fiber array. This system enables the analysis of 2-D plasma parameter distributions in vacuum arcs. Through experimental studies, we have gained insights into the 2-D distribution characteristics of particles within vacuum arcs across various peak current ranges. Specifically, we compared the 2-D distributions of the emission spectra of copper atoms (Cu I), chromium atoms (Cr I), copper single-charge ions (Cu II), and copper double-charge ions (Cu III) at the peak moments of the currents. Furthermore, we conducted a detailed analysis of how these 2-D distributions evolve as the peak current varies from 4 to 15 kA. This method not only offers fresh ideas for vacuum arc plasma diagnostics but also broadens the range of scenarios, where emission spectroscopy can be effectively utilized.