A Tesla-pulse forming line-plasma opening switch pulsed power generator

Area of Science:

• Pulsed Power Technology
• High Voltage Engineering
• Plasma Physics

Background:

• Pulsed power systems are crucial for various applications, including high-power microwave generation.
• Existing systems often require significant space and complexity.
• Training tools are needed to educate students in specialized pulsed power technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, compact, and repetitive pulsed power generator.
• To integrate a miniature plasma opening switch for enhanced performance.
• To create a versatile training tool for pulsed power students.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a high-voltage Tesla transformer to charge a water-filled pulse forming line.
• Implemented diverse insulation techniques: liquid (oil, water), gas (SF6), and magnetic insulation.
• Coupled a centimeter-size plasma opening switch to the generator output.
• Employed fast voltage and current sensors for system diagnostics.

Main Results:

• The generator successfully charges a pulse forming line to 300 kV.
• The miniature plasma opening switch reduced input current rise time.
• The plasma opening switch significantly increased load power.
• Demonstrated the system's capability for producing 15 GW pulses.

Conclusions:

• The developed generator serves as an effective training tool for pulsed power technology.
• The miniature plasma opening switch enhances system performance for high-power loads.
• Future work will focus on developing a repetitive, table-top generator for advanced applications.