A Shock-Induced Pulsed Power Switch Utilizing Electro-Explosion of Exploding Bridge Wire

Abstract

The pulsed power switch plays an important role in a wide variety of pulsed power applications, such as plasma science and high-pressure-impact studies. This article develops a shock-induced pulsed power switch based on electroexplosion of exploding bridge wire (EBW). The electrical field distribution and electrothermal coupling of EBW are simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics software to assess the rationality of structural parameters. Employing microelectromechanical system technology, the switches are mass-produced with only three steps, improving experimental efficiency and lowering the cost. Electrical tests are conducted at a series of operation voltages varying from 600 to 1800 V, and the results indicated that peak current increases linearly with operation voltage, while delay time and rise time all show a slowly declined trend. A potential conduction mechanism is discussed for better understanding, and switch resistance is described mathematically. Finally, microchip exploding foil initiators are used as a test vehicle to verify the capability of the switch, and ultrafine hexanitrostilbene (HNS-IV) pellets are successfully detonated at 0.15 μ F/1300 V after the switch is closed.