High Precision Electron Gun Development for Gyrotrons

A novel approach of using very high precision electron guns in gyrotrons would allow for a substantial improvement in gyrotron efficiency and performance. Electron beam guns are one of the key components of microwave tube devices such as gyrotrons. At frequencies of 170 GHz as required for the ITER electron cyclotron heating (ECH) system the quality and alignment of the electron beam become a critical factor in obtaining the required gyrotron efficiency and power levels. We propose to develop a highly precise gyrotron technology to significantly improve electron gun performance while at the same time reducing assembly costs and time. This technology would have applications in many types of microwave devices, such as THz sources, klystrons, and IOTs and could be utilized on other key device components requiring precision assembly, such as circuits and transmission line components.