Resonant converter topology for the new ISOLDE/CERN modulator

This paper describes a new resonant converter topology, using a solid-state asymmetric bridge to increase the energy efficiency of the solid-state switching circuit being designed to replace the actual pulse transformer and thyratron based resonant modulator that supplies the 60 kV target potential for the ion acceleration of the On-Line Isotope Mass Separator ISOLDE accelerator. The preliminary results of a 5 kV laboratory prototype validate this concept, however the design of all components, including a high-voltage coil, as well as, the selection of the semiconductors proven to be crucial in order to reduce the energy dissipation during the recovery process.