A 15 kA linear transformer driver

The design of a 15 kA linear transformer driver (LTD) is presented. The specific goal of this LTD was improved energy density over the 500 J compact Marx generator previously designed and built at Texas Tech's Pulsed Power lab. The design of an individual 50 joule, 30 kV stage is discussed. For successful operation of the LTD, multiple spark gaps have to be fired with low jitter. Possible approaches for the design of a compact, low jitter triggering circuit will be presented as well.