Characterization and optimization of the kapitza facility at pml-pulse physics.

This paper discusses the techniques and presents results of the characterization of the main components of the Kapitza facility at PML-Pulse Physics, which is a fast discharge, bipolar battery driven pulsed power supply for opening switch and rail accelerator research. The basic design considerations for the battery and pulse transformer are indicated, together with the basic choice of switch mechanism and performance limitations. An extensive characterization is performed in order to predict the behaviour of this pulsed power source under various load conditions. Results are described and recommendations for optimization are indicated.