Glowing Plate
When a vacuum tube circuit malfunctions and draws excessive current, the anode ("plate") may overheat, sometimes causing a visible red or orange glow. In consumer electronics, this is universally indicative that the tube is experiencing an overload condition, though the reasons for the overload may vary.
Some high-powered vacuum tubes (e.g. large transmitter tubes) have graphite or zirconium coated tantalum plates which are intended to operate at glowing temperatures. The zirconium plate coating acts as a getter, and proper getter action in these tubes depends on the plate running at high temperatures. Such tubes may develop excessive gas content if underloaded for long periods of time. One trade name for this type of plate coating is Eimac's "pyrovac".
Read more about Glowing Plate: Causes, Dangers, Common Occurrences
Famous quotes containing the words glowing and/or plate:
“Not in vain is Ireland pouring itself all over the earth. Divine Providence has a mission for her children to fulfill; though a mission unrecognized by political economists. There is ever a moral balance preserved in the universe, like the vibrations of the pendulum. The Irish, with their glowing hearts and reverent credulity, are needed in this cold age of intellect and skepticism.”
—Lydia M. Child (18021880)
“Say Yessum to the ladies, an Yessur to the men,
And when theys company, dont pass yer plate for pie again;
But, thinkin of the things yerd like to see upon that tree,
Jes fore Christmas be as good as yer kin be!”
—Eugene Field (18501895)