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Method for Recording Broadband High Resolution Emission Spectra of Laboratory Lightning Arcs
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Pulse generator with intermediate inductive storage as a lightning simulator.

B M Kovalchuk1, A V Kharlov1, A A Zherlytsyn1

  • 1Institute of High Current Electronics 2/3 Academichesky Ave., 634055 Tomsk, Russia.

The Review of Scientific Instruments
|July 3, 2016
PubMed
Summary

Researchers developed a compact lightning simulator using a Marx generator and a novel fuse switch. This transportable device generates precise lightning current pulses for electrical apparatus testing without hazardous materials.

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Area of Science:

  • Electrical Engineering
  • High Voltage Engineering
  • Pulsed Power Systems

Background:

  • Compact, transportable generators are essential for simulating lightning current pulses in electrical apparatus testing.
  • Existing simulators often require hazardous materials like SF6 or oil, posing practical challenges.
  • A bi-exponential current pulse with a fast rise time and longer damping time is required for accurate simulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and investigate a compact pulse generator for simulating lightning discharge.
  • To utilize intermediate inductive storage and a fuse opening switch for efficient pulse generation.
  • To create a practical, transportable lightning simulator operating in atmospheric air.

Main Methods:

  • A six-stage Marx generator (1 μF, 240 kV, 2 μH) served as the primary energy storage.
  • An electro-explosive opening switch utilizing straight copper wires was developed and tested.
  • 1D Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) calculations were performed and coupled with electric circuit equations.

Main Results:

  • The generator operated successfully in atmospheric air, eliminating the need for SF6 or oil.
  • Achieved current rise times below 1200 ns and variable damping times from 35 to 125 μs.
  • MHD calculations showed good agreement with experimental test results for load pulse parameters.

Conclusions:

  • The developed compact pulse generator effectively simulates lightning current pulses according to IEC and IEEE standards.
  • The design is suitable for a transportable lightning simulator capable of 50 kA currents.
  • The use of a fuse opening switch in atmospheric air represents a significant practical advancement.