Numerical Study of Magnetically Driven Isentropic Compression Experiments on PTS

Abstract

The most powerful pulse power generator in China—primary test stand (PTS)—was used to get isentropic compression of aluminum to about 100 GPa. The high performance of synchronization system enables to trigger 24 modules according to a required timing sequence, which makes PTS a good platform for electromagnetically driven high energy density physics experiments. Two shots were used to establish the pulse-shaping capability and test the reliability of a numerical code. The first shot used a stripline load driven by a smooth rising current, while the second one was driven by a current with a weak start followed by a sharp rise. The current profiles, as well as the sample thicknesses, are optimized by a 1-D magneto-hydrodynamic code MADE1D, coupled with a full circuit model for PTS. The experimental setup, physical model, and simulation results are introduced. Comparing with the experimental results, simulated velocities at Al/LiF interface agree well with the measurement. It is shown that the shape of current pulse is one of the most important factors that impact the loading process.