Electro-explosive switches for helical flux compression generators

D. Belt, J. Mankowski, A. Neuber, J. Dickens, M. Kristiansen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Helical Flux Compression Generators coupled with an inductive energy storage system have shown promising results as a driving source for High Power Microwave (HPM) loads. The output performance of the inductive energy storage system is contingent upon the opening switch scheme, usually an electro-explosive fuse. Our previous work involving fuse parameter characterization has established a baseline for potential fuse performance. By applying this fuse characterization model to an HFCG powered system, a non-optimized fuse has produced 60 kV into an HPM equivalent load with an HFCG output of 15 kA into a 3 μH inductor. Utilization of a non-explosive HFCG test-bed has produced 36 kV into an HPM equivalent load with an output of 15 kA into a 1.3 μH inductor. The use of a non-explosive HFCG test bed will allow the verification of scalability of the fuse parameter model and also allow testing of exotic fuse materials. Prior analysis of fuse parameters has been accomplished with various materials including Silver (Au), Copper (Cu), and Aluminum (Al), but particular interest resides in the use of Gold (Ag) fuse material. We will discuss the a-priori calculated baseline fuse design and compare the experimental results of the gold wire material with the silver wire material baseline design. With the results presented, an accurate Pspice model applicable to our 45 kA HFCG systems will be available and allow the development of accurate modeling for higher current systems. This work was solely funded by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR).

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2006 International Conference on Megagauss Magnetic Field Generation and Related Topics, including the International Workshop on High Energy Liners and High Energy Density Applications, MEGAGAUSS
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages359-364
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9781424420612
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2006
Event2006 International Conference on Megagauss Magnetic Field Generation and Related Topics, including the International Workshop on High Energy Liners and High Energy Density Applications, MEGAGAUSS - Santa Fe, NM, United States
Duration: Nov 5 2006Nov 10 2006

Publication series

Name2006 International Conference on Megagauss Magnetic Field Generation and Related Topics, including the International Workshop on High Energy Liners and High Energy Density Applications, MEGAGAUSS

Conference

Conference2006 International Conference on Megagauss Magnetic Field Generation and Related Topics, including the International Workshop on High Energy Liners and High Energy Density Applications, MEGAGAUSS
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySanta Fe, NM
Period11/5/0611/10/06

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