Reliable High Voltage Fireset System

Fireset systems are used to safely and efficiently conduct detonation research in order to characterize and optimize the performance of explosive trains for future weapon systems. Efficient, systematic experimental methods are critical for rapid energetic materials development, especially explosive material property measurements. Work in this Direct-to-Phase II program will optimize the fireset system for reliable high current operation including stable capacitance, low maintenance (10,000 shot lifetime), and reliable triggering to ensure jitter is <200 ns with 5 kV to 60 kV capacitor discharge switching.  The fireset system in this program will be fabricated, delivered, and installed, and AFRL personnel will be trained in operation of the fireset unit.