Fast, transient energy extraction from high frequency AC-alternators for use in electromagnetic launch applications

This paper describes work towards transient energy extraction from high frequency alternators to drive electromagnetic launchers through intelligent triggering of thyristors/silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs). The work was done using a 3-phase, 75 kVA level motor-generator set with a DC machine acting as the load. This system serves as a scale model to develop control techniques for full scale, multi-mega joule applications. With the use of a microcontroller and advanced sensors the system is able to maintain synchronization of the SCR converter with the generator voltage despite dynamically changing frequency and voltage distortion.