Experimental investigation of preset electrostatic fields in a quasi-electrode system

We describe the results of implementation and breadboard investigations of the method for obtaining constant electric fields of a preset form in a quasi-electrode system. We have constructed a prototype (12 cm in diameter and 30 cm in length) with 36 filamentary electrodes fed with potentials from divider systems with azimuthal distribution laws corresponding to cosθ′, cos2θ′, and cos3θ′ laws with the maximal voltages up to ±2.4 kV. As a result, the electric dipole, quadrupole, and sextupole fields are formed. These fields are analyzed for a 2D cross section of the prototype by physical simulation on a specially developed device with conducting paper. The distributions of the families of equipotential curves measured using the bridge circuit are considered and the strengths of the three types of electric fields are calculated. The results indicate the attainment of all predicted fields with preset parameters and a working area of the aperture of ≥84%. Some other favorable features are also outlined and a number of technical recommendations for producing such fields are given.