The present status of chain charging systems operating in large electrostatic accelerators

2014 A charging chain consisting of alternate insulating and conducting segments is inherently a more uniform structure than a conventional woven fabric charging belt. Consequently, in terms of voltage stability caused by variations in the charging system, a chain should be superior to a belt. In addition, a chain produces no lint and little dust; it is relatively insensitive to moisture and the insulating segments can be instrinsically protected from spark damage by careful design of the conducting segments. Although the basic concept of using a chain to carry charge is far from new, it was not until comparatively recently that chains with sufficient charge carrying capacity, strenght and long-term reliability have become available commercially. There are now several large electrostatic accelerators in operation around the world that are routinely using such charging chains and actual operating data from several of these laboratories is presented. The characteristics of two commercially available charging chain systems are reviewed. CHARGING SYSTEMS.