Performance of a Four-section Linear Induction Coil Launcher Prototype

Abstract

To improve the pulse capacitor-powered linear induction electromagnetic launcher system kinetic energy conversion efficiency, and promote development in the large mass projectile, high-speed launch requirements, this paper establishes the multi-section linear induction electromagnetic launcher model. A multi-section linear induction launcher experiment platform was built and the test was carried out. According to the principles of the mesh-matrix method, a lumped parameter transient physical and numerical model for the analysis of the dynamic conditions was built. The simulation code was programmed by MATLAB for the capacitor-driven launcher. Simulating the coil launcher by the code, one can draw the three-phase voltages and currents of the drive coils and the voltages and currents rings of the projectile, temperature of the drive coils and the rings of the projectile with respect, curves of the acceleration, force, and position of the projectile. A four-section linear induction launcher experiment bench was designed and established. Pulsed capacitor bank was used as the energy stored components. Each phase has a Spark-gap switch which, when closed, connects its portion of the capacitor bank to the coils, initiating the ac oscillations. Central control system was build based on the chip of the digital signal processor TMS320F2812 and the PC was coordinated the normal operation of the system. Performance results for the linear induction launcher with four sections are summarized. The system used pulsed capacitor bank and coils to accelerate 320-g projectile intact up to a muzzle velocity of 392 m/s. This provides the foundation of the higher muzzle velocity coil launcher research in the next stage.