switches with six-gap rod electrode systems on the breakdown strength of their internal insulation. Studies were
performed in two switching regimes. In the first regime, the erosion of electrodes occurs mainly in the vapor
phase, when the electrodes’ surfaces remained fairly smooth after switching. In the second regime, the erosion
in the drop phase prevails, and the electrodes’ surfaces were appreciably damaged. Statistical processing of the
experimental data shows that the distribution of the voltages of the first breakdown follows the Weibull law. The
effect of the interelectrode gap and the material of the electrodes on the breakdown strength of the devices is
considered. The maximum operating voltage of an
-43 triggered vacuum discharge switch is determined.