Multiphysics Modeling of High Voltage Explosive Flux Compression Generators

Continuation of a program to investigate flux compression generator (FCG) internal voltage intolerance is proposed. The goal will be to develop feasible concepts for greatly increasing FCG internal voltage tolerance and implement the new concept in device simulations. Phenomena to be considered include “seeding” of gas breakdown by armature / stator contact point physics studied in Phase I. This program will coordinate flux compression generator simulations with gas breakdown theory and simulations. Flux compression generator numerical modeling tools will provide time-domain evolution of electric fields, magnetic fields, and current densities. Gas breakdown modeling will show if stray conducting paths through the gas are present for specified gas pressure. Several hypotheses are discussed in this proposal to explain why FCG voltage tolerance is poor. Improvements to gas chamber preparation, and coil design, expected to increase FCG voltage tolerance are proposed. The theory of breakdown of magnetized electronegative gases is described. Two-dimensional hydrodynamic gas breakdown simulation results and preliminary runs with a kinetic code are also presented. Plans for expansion and commercialization of the work are included, in part, through several Phase II technology options.