Development of an ultra-compact explosively driven magnetic flux compression generator system

Explosively driven magnetic flux compression generators (MFCG) are effective high current, compact, disposable pulsed power supplies [1]. A common type of MFCG in use is a helical generator, HFCG, because it can provide very high current gain in a compact form. Successful implementation of a HFCG as a pulsed power source requires several peripheral systems including a seed current source and a high current switching mechanism. Additionally, for driving higher impedance loads, a power conditioning system is required to convert the high current, low voltage HFCG output into a more suitable voltage. HEM Technologies’ currently developed system utilizes an ultra compact, seed source previously developed by HEM Technologies [2]. An explosively driven closing switch provides both the switching action and acts as a delay generator to allow for the current rise in the HFCG. The output of the HFCG is conditioned via an exploding fuse wire and spark gap pair to convert the high current output to high voltage. HEM Technologies has performed extensive modification and testing of the end-to-end system. The current and energy conversion will be presented along with typical output voltages using different fusing techniques.