The charge transport in an electrostatic belt generator

Abstract

The fluctuations in the charge transport system of an EN Tandem Van de Graaff accelerator have been investigated by means of a frequency spectrum analyser. Frequency spectra of the terminal ripple, the short-circuit current and the voltage at the belt charge screen have been measured. Also the correlation function is examined between the last two signals. The mechanisms which can cause the measured fluctuations are discussed. The influence of fluctuations in the belt velocity and of vibrations is apparent.