Fast, transient energy extraction from high-frequency AC alternators for use in electromagnetic launch applications

This paper describes work toward transient energy extraction from high-frequency alternators to drive electromagnetic launchers through intelligent triggering of thyristors or silicon controlled rectifiers (SCR). The work was done using a three-phase, 75 kVA level motor-generator set with a dc machine acting as the load. This system serves as a scale model to develop control techniques for full-scale, multimegajoule applications. With the use of a microcontroller and advanced sensors, the system is able to maintain synchronization of the SCR converter with the generator voltage despite dynamically changing frequency and voltage distortion.