Fast numerical modelling and design issues of helical flux compression generators

Although a number of complex computer programmes available in the literature provide detailed information on both the overall characteristics and the internal magnetic and electric fields of FCGs, they usually require considerable computing time. Present interest in the use of FCGs as the energy source for high power microwave and other equipment however brings about the need for a fast code for use in the preliminary stages of a proposal design. The paper presents briefly a programme that is much faster than existing detailed programmes, but nevertheless provides an accurate prediction of the terminal characteristics. A number of significant and important issues that arise during the design of a generator are not always fully appreciated, and the paper also aims to remedy this by addressing these and discussing how their various effects can be identified.