Energy Storage - Contemporary Inductive Systems

Inductive energy storage systems are reviewed on the basis of efficiency considerations for purely resistive loads and partially or wholly inductive loads. High-energy charging systems, in particular impulsive homopolar generators, are examined. Relative merits of a number of possible switching systems are also considered. In general inductive storage systems are best adapted to loads with a minimum of inductance. High-energy charging systems typically should exhibit efficiencies of the order of 70%. Efficiency on discharge for resistive loads is limited principally by the switch since inherent circuit losses in large systems are small compared with other losses.