Author :
Meger, R.A. ; Boller, J.R. ; Commisso, R.J. ; Cooperstein, G. ; Goldstein, Shyke A. ; Kulsrud, R. ; Neri, J.M. ; Oliphant, F. ; Ottinger, P.F. ; Renk, Timothy J. ; Shipman, J.D. ; Stephanakis, S.J. ; Weber, B.V. ; Young, Frederic
Author_Institution :
Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375, USA
Abstract :
Inductive storage systems with fast opening switches for pulsed power applications offer the possibility of increased energy density and higher power output than conventional systems. The key element in such a system is a final vacuum opening switch which must be able to conduct megampere-level currents, open in ≲ 10 ns, and withstand megavolt-level voltages when open. The plasma erosion opening switch (PEOS) meets these requirements. Experiments using this switch in conjunction with a vacuum inductive store have been performed on the Gamble I and Gamble II generators at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL). Pulse compression and power multiplication have been demonstrated, and some scaling experiments have been performed. A model of the switch operation has been developed. The status of the NRL PEOS program will be reviewed.
