Optimized Pulsed Power Systems for Large Physics Experiments

The International Linear Collider (ILC), a facility important to DOE high-energy-physics research, will require power systems for hundreds of L-band klystrons. Reliable operation of the ILC will require superlative reliability from these power systems, and budgetary constraints will require the utmost in cost optimization; yet, conventional (WWII era) high-voltage power systems provide neither. Modern, solid-state, high-voltage high-power electronics have recently enabled systems that can meet the multiple technical requirements: modulation, protection, regulation, flicker reduction. These requirements generally require multiple layers of power processing, which adds cost to the system. This project will develop a highly optimized power system that minimizes the total integrated cost of the ILC klystron power system. During Phase I, the details of the pulsed power circuit for ILC klystrons will be designed. Cost models will be refined, in order to choose the optimum design parameters. Key technological elements (linear pulse power regulator, bouncer circuitry) will be demonstrated with scaled bench-top experiments. Phase I will conclude with a complete design for an optimum ILC klystron power system. In Phase II, a complete prototype power system will be built and delivered to DOE for assessment. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by the Applicant: The technology should be applicable to any large, pulsed power system. Today, these systems are used for commercial applications (in medical and industrial accelerators, food processing, wastewater treatment, and semiconductor manufacturing); military systems (such as large, high power radars, and directed energy systems); and in other high energy physics systems, including the International Tokamak Experimental Reactor (ITER) and the Rare Isotope Accelerator (RIA).