Transoner Power Transfer for TWT Power Systems

In the framework of a NASA SBIR-Phase I sponsored program, Face Electronics, LC has developed the first successful demonstration of a piezoelectric-based high-voltage, high-power transformer, TAP-SONER, for use in Electronic Power Conditioners (EPCs) for space Travelling Wave Tube Amplifiers (TWTAs). The new transformer operates under resonant conditions with a very high mechanical factor. Consequently, the transformer can achieve a higher step-up ratios and higher power density compared to similar conventional magnetic transformers. The novel transformer is compact in size, light in weight, and does not generate magnetic interferences, since neither magnetic materials nor coils are involved in its manufacturing. Additionally, the specific design proposed for Phase I, based on a new paralleling-tapped concept developed by Face, allows for the supply of a different number of high voltages and high powers required to drive the TWT.The Phase II proposal is focused on the technical improvement of the proposed device in order to achieve the performance levels required for low and medium power TWTs. In order to achieve this goal the following objectives will be pursued: (a) increase power output of current design up to 100W, (b) electronic integration for space application, and (c) reliability testing for the final equipment.