A counterpulsed, solid-state opening switch
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Authors
Graham, Michael C.
Subjects
Advisors
Maier, William B.
Harkins, Richard
Date of Issue
2005-06
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Railguns have great potential in military roles; however, they currently lack a fieldable power supply. Recent advances in the state of low voltage power storage devices may enable practical Pulse Forming Inductive Network power supplies to be developed if a suitable current interruption device is developed. A solid-state device in a counterpulsed opening switch configuration is a possible solution. A demonstration counterpulsed solid-state opening switch was constructed and successfully tested. This circuit consisted of Silicon Controlled Rectifier components, which can nominally only turn on current. The counterpulsed configuration allowed them to function as opening switches and to do so at much higher current relative to their specifications. We demonstrated current interruption at up to 1 kA of peak current. This demonstration system validates the counterpulsing concept and prepares for the construction of a modular, 250 kJ system.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Physics
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xiv, 32 p. : ill. (some col.) ;
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.