Design of Capacitor Blocks with Multi-Channel Switches for Linear Transformer Driver Stages

Abstract

In the linear transformer driver technology, the low inductance energy storage components and switches are directly incorporated into the individual cavities (named stages) to generate a fast output voltage pulse, which is added along a vacuum coaxial line like in an inductive voltage adder. In this paper, we outline the detailed design concept and the basic parameters of four capacitor blocks with four different types of multi-channel gas switches. The 100 kV capacitor block #1 and #2 incorporate two parallel capacitors (40 nF, 100 kV) and multi-gap multi-channel gas switches with triggering plate or triggering cable. The 200 kV capacitor block #3 and #4 incorporate two capacitors (40 nF, 100 kV) in series and rail-gap gas switches with one triggering rail or two triggering rails. Operating principles of four multi-channel gas switches are illustrated by using the equivalent electrical scheme of each switch. The basic characteristics of four capacitor blocks are given. The effect of stray capacitances on the trigger pulses is also discussed.