Multiphysics Modeling of High Voltage Explosive Flux Compression Generators

A program to investigate flux compression generator internal voltage intolerance is proposed. This study will coordinate flux compression generator simulations with gas breakdown theory and simulations. The goal of this work is to show that careful modeling of this system can reproduce the experimentally observed voltage intolerance and then propose and demonstrate remedial actions that can be taken to improve it. 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. The effect of these stray paths on FCG operation will also be modeled. Several hypotheses are advanced in this proposal to explain why FCG voltage tolerance is poor. Both axial and end initiated FCG simulations are given. The theory of breakdown of magnetized electronegative gases is described. Two-dimensional gas breakdown simulation results are also presented. Additionally, it is proposed that a comprehensive flux compression generator (FCG) code development project based on commercially available Multiphysics code package be used to investigate the causes of high voltage intolerance of FCGs and to improve the high voltage performance of FCG.