Modeling and analysis of the high energy liner experiment, HEL-1

Abstract

A high energy, massive liner experiment, driven by an explosive flux compressor generator, was conducted at VNIIEF firing point, Sarov, on August 22, 1996. We report results of numerical modeling and analysis we have performed on the solid liner dynamics of this 4.0 millimeter thick aluminum liner as it was imploded from an initial inner radius of 236 mm onto a central measuring unit (CMU), radius 55 mm. Both one- and two-dimensional MHD calculations have been performed, with emphasis on studies of Rayleigh-Taylor instability in the presence of strength and on liner/glide plane interactions. One-dimensional MHD calculations using the experimental current profile confirm that a peak generator current of 100-105 MA yields radial liner dynamics which are consistent with both glide plane and CMU impact diagnostics. These calculations indicate that the liner reached velocities of 6.9-7.5 km/s before CMU impact. Kinetic energy of the liner, integrated across its radial cross-section, is between 18-22 MJ. Since the initial goal was to accelerate the liner to at least 20 MJ, these calculations are consistent with overall success. Two-dimensional MHD calculations were employed for more detailed comparisons with the measured data set. The complete data set consisted of over 250 separate probe traces. From these data and from their correlation with the MHD calculations, we can conclude that the liner deviated from simple cylindrical shape during its implosion. Two-dimensional calculations have clarified our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for these deformations.