Optimization of pulse quality for a linear induction accelerator

An effort undertaken to develop and optimize linear induction accelerator (LIA) cells and drivers for these cells is discussed. Major emphasis was given to improved pulse quality properties regarding the flatness of the accelerating voltage waveshape. As part of this effort, a LIA test stand was designed, constructed, and tested. The major design considerations, a description of the test stand, results of circuit modeling the LIA cell and its driving pulse power system, and results of testing this LIA system are presented. The measured pulse waveshapes of the tested LIA cell are in good agreement with the numerical circuit modeling, and they exhibit a very high degree of flatness, +or-0.4% for 65-ns pulsewidth and +or-1.2% for 80-ns pulsewidth, for optimal switching conditions. Additional tests that are underway are described.<
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