
41
ION BEAM RF SOURCES MANUAL
Chapter 5: Advanced Operation
Impingement damage can occur when ions strike a
grid directly. The most common mechanism for this
is when the accelerator grid holes become unevenly
coated near the edge of the grid. The beamlets
will then steer and strike the decelerator grid.
Impingement will also occur when grids are distorted,
misaligned, or have uneven spacing. A coating flake
can also create a temporary impingement situation.
The damage to the grid will be holes that are shaped
like teardrops or ovals. It is normal to have some
of these holes, especially near the edge of the grid.
Grids are usually replaced when this type of wear
becomes excessive.
Delamination can occur when the molybdenum is
nearing its end-of-life. Layers of material begin to
separate between grid holes. The layers will distort
and can peal back. Delamination will occur when
grids have been cleaned numerous times. It can
also be triggered when grids have been cleaned too
aggressively (i.e. media blast at too high of pressure).
The delaminated sections of the grid can trap water
vapor and will promote grid arcing. When this
condition is first noticed, consider it an alert the grids
will need to be replaced soon.
Impingement wear due to coating of the accelerator
grid.
Delamination is where the molybdenum starts to
peal back, bubble, and separate between holes.