Title :
Liquid metal switches for electromagnetic railgun systems
Author :
Mitcham, A.J. ; Prothero, D.H. ; Brooks, J.C.
Author_Institution :
NEI Int. Res. & Dev. Ltd., Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
fDate :
1/1/1991 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
The need for a reliable and effective communicating switch is essential to the operation of a homopolar-generator-driven (HPG-driven) railgun system. This switch must offer the lowest possible resistance during the current build up time and then must commutate the current quickly and efficiently into the railgun barrel. The essential requirements for such a switch are discussed, and, after a brief review of the available switch technologies, a type of switch based on a liquid metal switching medium is described
Keywords :
commutation; electromagnetic launchers; homopolar generators; switches; commutation; current build up time; homopolar generators; liquid metal switches; railgun; Acceleration; Current density; Inductors; Power generation; Projectiles; Railguns; Rails; Solids; Switches; Switching circuits;
Journal_Title :
Magnetics, IEEE Transactions on
