Calculation of output power and X-ray spectrum of Z-pinches based on multiwire arrays

Abstract

We present mathematical models and methods of the computational experiment using a three-dimensional RMHD model simulating the implosion of Z-pinches formed by an imploding cylindrical array of thin tungsten wires. The calculations take into account the discrete structure of the array and the extended plasma formation at the evaporation of the wire material and they yield the estimated values of the output power and X-ray spectrum. The data are presented on the spatio-temporal distribution in the parameters of the Z-pinch plasma, including the velocity, electron and ion temperatures, ionization degree, and the power output integrated over space. We have also calculated the characteristics of the Z- pinch X-ray spectrum depending on the photon energy at different times after the discharge current starts. It has been found that the trailing mass of tungsten on the periphery affects the emission intensity of the central part of the pinch in the radial direction, which can be explained by the emission absorption in the peripheral plasma layers of the trailing tungsten mass. A detailed model has been constructed of the central pinch formed by the electric current implosion of the material of multiwire tungsten arrays. This model enables one to calculate the intensity of the soft X-ray emission with a temporal, spatial, angular, and spectral resolution for specific experiments on the Angara-5-1 experimental complex intended to study the implosion of cylindrical multiwire arrays, for which there is sufficient information about the time profile of the absolute emission intensity in the low-energy range of the X-ray emission. The obtained numerical results can be directly compared with the experimental values. The RMHD model simulating the implosion of Z-pinches has been verified by comparing its results with the experimental implosion indicators.