Development and Testing of a High-Gain Magnetic Flux Compression Generator

• Published in: 2006 IEEE International Conference on Megagauss Magnetic Field Generation and Related Topics pp. 265 - 274
• Main Authors: Parker, J.V., Cavazos, T.C., Roth, C.E., Degnan, J.H., Kiuttu, G.F., Lehr, F.M.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01-11-2006
• Subjects: Breakdown voltage; Current measurement; Electric breakdown; Frequency measurement; Inductance measurement; Laboratories; Loss measurement; Magnetic flux; Stator windings; Testing
• ISBN: 9781424420612; 142442061X
• DOI: 10.1109/MEGAGUSS.2006.4530687

The performance of a high-gain FCG is often limited by internal electrical breakdown caused by the high voltage generated during operation. Modern diagnostic techniques provide the opportunity to diagnose internal breakdowns so that generator designs can be improved. This paper describes the internal breakdowns observed in the JAKE FCG developed at the AFRL during the late 1990's. A revision to the stator winding pattern of the JAKE generator has led to improved control of the internal voltage. Designated JILL, the revised generator has substantially better flux transport efficiency, particularly at higher seed current. The techniques employed to design the new stator winding and the results of development testing are presented.