On the Mechanics of Magnetic Amplifier Operation

In this paper certain magnetic amplifier circuits will be illustrated and their circuit equations presented subject to certain assumptions. The equations will be interpreted in as clear a manner as the author thinks possible and some conclusions will be drawn. Since the mathematics of analysis of magnetic amplifiers is quite complex as viewed from continuous theory a clearer period by period interpretation will be pursued during which periods the equations may be considered as a continuous, elementary and reasonably accurate representation of the phenomena. The two periods which will be used are those during which the amplifier output current is large (conducting period); and during which the amplifier output current is of the order of the magnetizing current (nonconducting period). Equivalent circuits for each period will be set up. The final conditions of one period will represent the initial conditions of the following period. The two assumptions utilized in this analysis are ``ideal'' magnetization curves for the core materials, Figure 1, and ``ideal'' rectifiers. The best core materials and rectifiers manufactured today rather closely approximate these assumed conditions. A resistive load impedance will be used for simplification of the mathematics. The conclusions drawn from these elementary considerations will form a basis for predicting the performance of examples of certain novel circuits which shall have properties of an unusual nature. Practical discussion of these circuits is beyond the scope of this paper and will be presented elsewhere.