Opening switches for a 5 MJ, 1 MA energy storage transformer

Two possible switches topologies used to switch the primary of an energy storage transformer are compared. A series-connected semiconductor/vacuum interrupter switch and an all-solid-state switch are sized for a 5 MJ energy storage transformer. Gate-turn-off (GTO) thyristors are used as the semiconductor switches. Total mass estimates, operating characteristics, and applicability to a space-based pulsed power system are discussed. Both designs store the commutation energy in capacitors. The communication energy is then dissipated in resistors after switching has occurred. The capacitor mass is shown to dominate the total switch mass. Therefore, the mass of both switches is approximately equal. The advantages of the all-solid-state switch include high reliability, no moving parts, proven design, and a high probability of future mass reduction with new semiconductor device developments. The all-solid-state switch has a higher on-state power dissipation than the vacuum interpreter switch. it is suggested that the advantages of the all-solid-state switch outweigh the disadvantages of the higher power dissipation