Parameter analysis and optimized configuration of the PFU for inductive storage systems

Paralleled pulse-forming units (PFUs) with different triggering delays might be a paramagnetic way for generating flat-topped current wave for electromagnetic launch. Many researches have reported that multiple capacitive storage PFUs were implemented such current waves in laboratories. However, due to its low energy density, the applications of the capacitive pulsed-power supplies are limited. Since the inductor has advantages in energy storage, the inductor pulsed-power supply becomes one of the hottest topics recently. The STRETCH meat grinder with ICCOS proposed by Tsinghua University has demonstrated its advantage and applicability recently. By using this kind of topology, this paper proposes the design of an inductive storage PFU with 100 kJ stored energy. The maximum load current reach to 50 kA and its pulse width is at least 5ms. The optimized inductive storage PFU shows superiority in contrast to the capacitive storage PFU with the same energy. The work in this paper offers the theoretical analysis and the testing foundation for investigating the inductor pulsedpower supply with higher energy.