Nuclear EMP: effects of nuclear EMP on AM broadcast stations in the emergency broadcast system

Technical Report · Thu Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1971

OSTI ID:4327598

Nelson, D B

The electromagnetic pulse, one of the effects of the detonation of a nuclear weapon, consists of intense transient electric and magnetic fields. The considerable energy in these fields can cause malfunction or damage of electrical and electronic equipment exposed to EMP. The effects of EMP on AM broadcast stations of the Emergency Broadcast System were investigated. This study included interviews with station personnel and other efforts to identify typical station construction and practice, as well as analytical treatments of the transients induced by EMP on station antennas and power line. Most likely sources of damage are determined and the possibility and time requirements of effecting repairs are estimated. Station experience with lightning and a comparison of direct lightining strokes to the antenna with the EMP-caused surges are included. Recommendations are glven for measures which may reduce EMP damage or the extent of its effects. In most cases these are limited to procedures or low cost improvements. Conservative overdesign to achieve very high reliability is not currently recommended for stations participating in the EBS. (auth)

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab., Tenn. (USA)
• NSA Number: NSA-29-020834
• OSTI ID: 4327598
• Report Number(s): PEM--4
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

*COMMUNICATIONS-- PHYSICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
*ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSES- - SHIELDING
*ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION-- SHIELDING
*NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS-- ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSES
ATMOSPHERIC EXPLOSIONS
N42500* --Engineering--Nuclear Explosions