Flexible Cooled Power Conductors for Electromagnetic Railguns

Electromagnetic railguns are transitioning from single shot lab guns to a weapon system firing 6-12 rounds per minute. The cables that supply the railgun current from the power supply must also make this transition. In Phase 1, we designed, built, and thermally tested a flexible cooled coaxial cable for this application. In Phase II, we propose to optimize this design between the three competing factors resistive losses/coolant requirements, cable size, and flexibility. The cable system will be designed to deliver the 5-6 mega-amps required by tactical railguns. The cable terminations will be designed to integrate with the limited space allowed at the launcher for these electrical connections. Cable flexibility must accommodate the required range of motion needed for aiming and recoil survival. At the completion of Phase II, we will have validate the prototype design through thermal, repetitive pulsed electromagnetic, and recoil testing to meet the demands of the railgun mission.