Research on Arc Suppression Parameter Matching of Augmented Electromagnetic Launcher

In order to effectively suppress the muzzle arc, an augmented electromagnetic launcher (EML) model with arc suppression has been established. Then, the model was validated by experiments with and without arc suppression. Finally, the matching between the arc suppression parameters (charging voltage, trigger delay, and installation position) and the main circuit was investigated. The results show that the electromagnetic force formed by the arc suppression circuit is the braking force before the armature passes the arc suppression installation position, and then becomes the driving force after the armature passes the arc suppression installation position. In general, the arc suppression trigger delay and the charging voltage should be reasonably matched to achieve that most of the current in the muzzle is removed by the arc suppression circuit when the armature is released. Besides, in the design of EML, the installation position of arc suppression should be fully considered in combination with its influence on arc suppression effect and muzzle velocity.