Analytical model for multimodule IES generator efficiency optimization

The topics of this paper is to optimize the current transfer from the MARX generator to the load of a multimodule Inductive Energy Storage Generator (IES). On the base of POS we carried out this work for the optimization of a generator called MAG2 in IES configuration driving a Z-pinch load (stored energy 160 kJ, Z-pinch peak current 2 MA). The first part is devoted to an analytical analysis of the multimodule IES scheme driving a dynamic load (0D model) in the case of ideal opening of Plasma Opening Switches (POS). We estimate the main characteristics as critical voltages, load peak current and efficiency of the design during the different operation steps: MARX discharge on inductive storage line, POS opening and transfer to an imploding load. Using these data some scaling principals based on the efficiency optimization of the IES concept are proposed to find the optimum values of upstream and downstream inductance and MARX voltage (number of capacitors in series) of this kind of generator driving a PRS load.