Design, development and characterization of Blumlein Pulse Forming Line based pulsed power system for High Power Microwave source research

Abstract

This paper describes a complete cycle of designing, developing, and characterising a Pulsed Power System (PPS) and generating microwaves using the relativistic source. For low impedance relativistic High Power Microwave (HPM) sources, Blumlein Pulse Forming Line (BPFL) based high voltage pulsed power systems are the most suited. An HPM source such as a virtual cathode oscillator (VIRCATOR) operating in nanosecond durations consists of a primary voltage source that charges a Marx pulse generator’s capacitor bank over a long time. The requirements of a diode load are met by compressing the output pulse width of a Marx generator by a BPFL. This article describes the novel design, construction and characterization of a circulating De-Ionized (DI) water insulated BPFL pulsed power system. A novel approach of insulating gas filled Marx generator of this class/rating is attempted. A pulse power system consisting of high pressure gas insulated Marx generator and circulating DI water-based BPFL was developed and experimented with the resistive load as well as HPM source. The PSPICE simulation of the Blumlein circuit for various load conditions is described. Criticalities in the design of end bushings are elaborated along with the development and testing of a compact BPFL-based pulsed power system.