Comparison of performances between stack and plane turn-augmented railgun

Abstract

For stacked double-rail turn-augmented railgun, two pairs of sub-rails are stackedand. Each pair of sub-rails provide guidance for one armature, and the two armatures push forward together one projectile. While for plane single-rail turn-augmented, the augmented turns are arranged outside the main rails where one armature is placed. Since the existence of mutual inductance, launch performance of two types of railguns has enhanced. Inductance gradient (L') is an important parameter in studying electromagnetic launch. Using 3D eddy current field finite element method, total inductance gradient (self inductance gradient and mutual inductance gradient) of these two types of railguns is analyzed and calculated. Results show that inductance gradient depends on armatures' position, especially at breech nearby. Put the results into launch process simulations, and the quality of two armatures in stacked doule-rail turn-augmented railgun and one armature in plane single-rail turn-augmented railgun, the friction and the initial position of armatures are the same. Compare electromagnetic launch of these two types of railguns by ultimate calculation results, the former is obviously better than the latter.