Reversible helical electromagnetic launcher used as an electrically programmable shock tester

The performance of a reversible helical electromagnetic launcher (RHEML) is reported and discussed. The results demonstrate the feasibility of using the RHEML as an electrically programmable shock tester (EPST). The data show that the reversible helical electromagnetic launcher can be operated with parallel-connected armatures that share current and force. This report is also the first-ever successful demonstration of iron-cored HEML stators. The electrical programmability of the EPST has been demonstrated by varying the shock pulse width in approximately 30 ms increments. The armature assembly has a total mass of approximately 25 kg (55 lbs). The stators are approximately 100 mm (4 in.) in diameter and 2.3 m (90 in.) long. The large mass reversible helical electromagnetic launcher is powered by a 1 MJ capacitive pulse forming network. The armature assembly has a measured minimum velocity of 0.4 m/s and a maximum velocity of 8.3 m/s. The minimum acceleration/deceleration force is 4.3 gees, while the maximum acceleration/deceleration force is 30.7 gees. The minimum shock pulse width is 16 ms, and the maximum shock pulse width is 150 ms.