Analytical Design and Simulation of a 9.3-GW Tesla Transformer for HPM Sources

Abstract

This article presents a step-by-step design and modeling of a high-voltage pulse generator (PG) based on a Tesla transformer (TT) with an open-magnetic core to drive a low-impedance high-power microwave (HPM) source. Our design uses the OFF-resonance mode of operation for higher voltage transformation ratios. The pulse-forming line of the transformer is filled with deionized water for a higher energy density of the line and an increased output pulse duration. Maxwell equations are used to establish the transformer parameters such as the magnetizing and leakage inductances, and subsequently, the geometry of the TT for optimum power transfer between the resonant circuits. The required circuit parameters and geometry of the generator producing up to 250 kV and peak power of 9.3 GW when matched to a 6.7- <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\Omega $ </tex-math></inline-formula> load were determined through analytical design and validated through simulations.