Explanation of multi-pulse behavior in an LTD based on compact PFNs

A six cavity inductive voltage adder with pulsed power incorporated into a single assembly, linear transformer driver (LTD), has been developed. Each LTD cavity is driven by a single pulse forming network and spark gap switch. The output pulse is approximately square in shape due to the pulse forming networks (PFNs) used for the drivers. In some cases, when unreliable switch firing occurred, multiple output pulses were observed. The pulses stem from each cavity firing at a different time. A circuit model which explains the multi-pulse behavior and details the current path is developed. This observation shows the potential for an LTD to discharge each cavity individually to the load thus providing extremely high repetition rates on a common cathode stalk.