Possible uses for Phillips Laboratory MHD generator. Final report, 1 October 1994-30 August 1995
There is interest in electromagnetic energy sources for applications to directed energy weapons. Candidates include portable conventional rotating machinery electric generators, magnetic flux compression generators (aka explosive generators, magnetocumulative generators or MCGs) based on explosive action, and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generators using chemical energy of explosives or rocket propellants. For portable high energy MHD generators, US technology base appeared to need rescue. The US has received a MHD device in the PAMlR-3U, developed in the former Soviet Union. The present discussion considers uses of this generator for programs on high-power microwave systems and other directed energy concepts. Future applications will be limited by development and funding of specific technical needs. A useful next step would be detailed design of a system to charge high-voltage pulsers. This design should include comparison of single-pulse switching to achieve high-voltage from an inductive storage coil (energy storage option) vs repetitive switching at low voltage, followed by custom built transformers (direct drive option).
- Research Organization:
- Phillips Lab., Kirtland AFB, NM (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 445756
- Report Number(s):
- AD-A-317939/7/XAB; TRN: 70490189
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: Aug 1995
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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