Reversible helical electromagnetic launcher used as an electrically programmable shock tester.

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Materials Science
• Physics

Background:

• Electromagnetic launchers offer precise control over projectile motion.
• Developing advanced testing equipment is crucial for material science research.
• Previous electromagnetic launchers lacked electrical programmability for shock testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of a reversible helical electromagnetic launcher (RHEML).
• To demonstrate the feasibility of using the RHEML as an electrically programmable shock tester (EPST).
• To showcase the successful operation of iron-cored stators in an RHEML.

Main Methods:

• The RHEML was configured with parallel-connected armatures for shared current and force.
• Iron-cored stators were successfully implemented and tested.
• The EPST's electrical programmability was demonstrated by adjusting shock pulse width.

Main Results:

• The RHEML demonstrated successful operation with parallel armatures and iron-cored stators.
• Electrical programmability was achieved, with shock pulse widths adjustable in approximately 30 ms increments.
• The armature assembly (25 kg) achieved velocities from 0.4 m/s to 8.3 m/s, with forces ranging from 4.3 to 30.7 gees.

Conclusions:

• The reversible helical electromagnetic launcher is a viable technology for creating an electrically programmable shock tester.
• The successful demonstration of parallel armatures and iron-cored stators advances electromagnetic launcher technology.
• The EPST's ability to vary shock pulse width (16-150 ms) provides a versatile tool for shock testing applications.