A cathode system includes an impregnated pellet and a conductive cup, which has substantially cylindrical sides. The conductive cup has an open end sized to receive the impregnated pellet and a closed end. The closed end has an internal surface and an external surface. The cathode system also includes a second conductive cup. The second conductive cup also has substantially cylindrical sides, an open end and a closed end. The cathode system further includes a similar third conductive cup. The three conductive cups are electrically coupled together. For construction of the cathode, the first conductive cup receives the impregnated pellet following coupling of the three conductive cups.