The behavior of [N.sub.2] + S[F.sub.6] gas mixtures subjected to orthogonal electric and magnetic Fields

The limiting equivalent electric fields in [N.sub.2] + S[F.sub.6] binary gas mixtures due to Townsend discharges are evaluated directly from a Monte-Carlo simulation when the mixture is subjected to orthogonal electric and magnetic fields. Along with the limiting equivalent electric fields, transverse and perpendicular drift velocities, electron mean energies and collision frequencies arc also determined within the scope of the Monte-Carlo simulation. The equivalent reduced electric field (EREF) concept for the corresponding limiting electric fields is also investigated for the calculated mean energy levels and collision frequencies. The EREF values are found to be in good agreement with the previously published limiting electric field data. Index Terms--Gas discharges, S[F.sub.6], nitrogen, electric breakdown, magnetic field effects.