Analysis and simulation on pulse current distribution in copper strips

Railgun is a kind of new concept kinetic energy weapon. To overcome the local clustering of the high pulse current on the railgun conductor´s surface, a method was introduced to abate the skin effect. On the basis of theoretical analysis, three kinds of methods were adopted to increase the current uniformity coefficient. Then the copper strips, whose thickness were 40mm, 20mm, 15mm, 10mm respectively, were simulated with a typical half period sine waveform which has 10-ms pulse width and 2-MA peak current. The best current uniformity coefficient in the copper strips is more than 73%. This paper shows three conclusions. Firstly, under the same conditions, The current distribution will become more uniform as the copper stripers become thinner. Secondly, current distribution can be improved to a certain extent by smoothing strip edges. Thirdly, the additive tungsten sheaths or iron sheaths beside both sides of the copper strips can further improve the current distribution. The results of this work have great significance in improving the pulse current-carrying capability of the railgun conductors.