High-voltage characterization for the prototype induction cells

Two linear induction prototype cells expected to work at 250kV, 3kA, with accelerating voltage flattop (±1%) ≥70ns, have been tested to determine their high-voltage characteristics. Each cell is composed of a ferrite core immersed in oil, a gap with curved stainless steel electrodes, a solenoid magnet, and a insulator. The experiments were carried out with full-scale cells. The high voltage pulses were applied to two cells using a 100ns, 12Ω pulse Blumlein. The tests were performed at various high-voltage levels ranging from − 250kV to −350kV. No breakdown was observed during the test at vacuum level (7–10) ·10⁻⁴ Pa. The cell schematic, the experimental set up, and the measured voltage waveforms are presented in this paper.