Dassault Systèmes has introduced Spark3D, a unique simulation tool for determining the RF breakdown power level in a wide variety of passive devices, including cavities, waveguides, microstrip and antennas. Spark3D can import field results from CST Studio Suite simulations directly to analyze vacuum breakdown (multipactor) and gas discharge. From this, Spark3D calculates the maximum power that the device can handle without causing discharge effects.
Typical approximate approaches to determine the RF breakdown power level of any component are intentionally conservative. Spark3D is based on advanced methods which analyze the breakdown phenomena numerically, predicting more realistic breakdown power levels, and thus improving the design margins.
Capabilities of Spark3D
Multipactor Analysis: RF Breakdown in Vacuum
The multipactor effect is a microwave breakdown discharge occurring at high frequencies in vacuum conditions caused by the formation of an electron cloud. High-energy electrons collide with the walls of the device, releasing secondary electrons, eventually creating an electron avalanche. The continuous release of electrons results in the creation of electron plasma, which degrades the response of the component.
With Spark3D, the user can perform full numerical simulations of the multipactor effect, considering the 3D EM field distribution. To perform this simulation, Spark3D emits electrons in the component, tracking their trajectories and checking the evolution of the electron number with time.
Gas Discharge Analysis: RF Breakdown in Gases and Plasma
Gas discharge (also known as corona discharge or ionization breakdown) is a microwave breakdown discharge occurring in gas-filled components caused by the formation of an electron cloud. High-energy electrons collide with gas molecules, releasing more electrons by ionization, finally creating an electron plasma. This plasma degrades the component's response, which can eventually destroy it.
With Spark3D, the user can perform full numerical simulations of the corona effect, considering the 3D EM field distribution. Spark3D solves the free electron continuity equation in the component, checking if the electron density grows with time for a particular input power level. With this, users can calculate their devices' breakdown voltage and power level.
Key Features of Spark3D:
- Import the electromagnetic (EM) fields from different EM solvers.
- Automatic determination of the breakdown power threshold.
- Definition of analysis boxes to choose the critical regions for analysis.
- Output interface with rich simulation data, in table, plot and 3D view forms.
Spark3D is an optional part of CST Studio Suite® and is also available as a stand-alone offering.
Click here to learn more about Spark3D from Dassault Systèmes.
