Abstract
The flash of light observed in discharging large condensers through a very thin wire has been used as a light source for obtaining photographs and for making visual studies of rapidly moving objects. Copper wire was found most suitable for photographic exposures. Wires made of silver and Chromel gave good results in visual work. The energy emitted by an exploding copper wire was determined by a photographic photometric reduction in four regions of the spectrum. The entire emission of a copper wire of 2.5-cm length amounts to (6.5±0.3)×108 watt/cm2. Its emission in the visible region of the spectrum amounts to 9.6×108 candle power/cm2. The values show the great amount of energy available for this type of work and point to future use.
An example is given of the application of exploding wires in an industrial technique, showing the formation of soap granules in the spray drying process. Arrangements for multiple flashes and means of exploding materials not available as thin wires are discussed.
© 1951 Optical Society of America
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