High-voltage pulsed generator for dynamic fragmentation of rocks.

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Physics

Background:

• High-voltage pulsed power systems are crucial for various scientific and industrial applications.
• Efficient rock fragmentation methods are needed for mining and construction.
• Portable pulsed generators offer flexibility in experimental setups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a portable high-voltage pulsed generator for rock fragmentation experiments.
• To explore its potential for other technological applications.
• To characterize the generator's performance parameters.

Main Methods:

• The generator comprises low voltage and high voltage blocks, a transmission line, and a fragmentation chamber.
• Energy storage is achieved using a primary capacitor bank (300 μF, 600 J).
• A high-voltage pulsed step-up transformer and a two-electrode gas switch are utilized.

Main Results:

• The generator achieved an output voltage of up to 300 kV with a voltage rise time of approximately 50 ns.
• Current amplitude reached ~6 kA into a 40 Ω load and ~20 kA in a rock-water mixture.
• The system operates in bursts of 1000 pulses at 10 Hz and features a Faraday cage for electromagnetic shielding.

Conclusions:

• The developed portable high-voltage pulsed generator is suitable for rock fragmentation and other applications.
• Its controllable parameters and robust design ensure reliable operation.
• The system's shielding protects against electromagnetic interference, enhancing experimental integrity.