High Efficiency and High Power Quality Electrical Power Conversion

The goal of the Navy Linear Induction Motor (LIM) launcher is to demonstrate the launching of projectiles to high speeds via an electromagnetic induction process. One program objective is to achieve launch velocities of 1000 m/s in gun lengths up to 10 m, with projectiles of density of 4 to 5 gm/cc and weights from 100gm to 1 kg. In Phase I of this effort, DTI developed solid state power modules for shipboard power control applications, and scalable solid-state switches suitable for operating NAVY developed asynchronous electromagnetic (LIM) launchers. The array switches are used in multiphase bridge inverter systems that can drive induction launcher coils for both low and high speed launch. This Phase II proposal for N06-181 builds on both of these preceding efforts, with a primary focus on developing and extending the EML power control systems. In the first part of this proposed Phase II program, DTI will build three full bridge cabinets, and conduct a launch demonstration at its facilities. Adding to this initial capability over the Phase II program will permit the launching of heavier projectiles from a tube up to 10 m in length, at a velocity of up to 1 km/s.