Precursor phenomenon model for multiwire arrays

Presents a heuristic model that can be used to estimate the dynamics of the wire array implosion. A two-shell precursor model has been developed. Expressions for the maximum precursor current and the precursor kinetic energy have been obtained. It is suggested that the difference in the resistance of the core and the corona of an individual wire is the reason for the precursor appearance. The precursor current increases sharply as the current rise time is lengthened. The most efficient way to suppress the precursor is to reduce the resistance of the core.