Operational Characteristics of a High Voltage Dense Plasma Focus.
Abstract
A high voltage dense plasma focus powered by a single-stage Marx bank was designed, built and operated. The maximum bank parameters are: voltage--120 kV, energy--20 kJ, short-circuit current--600kA. The bank impedance is about 200 millohms. The plasma focus center electrode diameter is 1.27 cm. The outer electrode diameter is 10.16 cm. Rundown length is about 10 cm, corresponding to a bank quarter period of about 900 millohms ns. Rundown L is about 50 milliohms. The context of this work is established with a review of previous plasma focus theoretical, experimental and computational work and related topics. Theoretical motivation for high voltage operation is presented. The design, construction and operation of this device are discussed in detail. Results and analysis of measurements obtained are presented. Device operation was investigated primarily at 80 kV (9 kJ), with a gas fill of about 1 torr H2, plus 3-5 percent A. The following diagnostics were used: gun voltage and current measurements; filtered, time-resolved x-ray PIN measurements of the pinch region; time integrated x-ray pinhole photographs of the pinch region; fast-frame visible light phototgraphs of the sheath during rundown; and B probe measurements of the current sheath shortly before collapse. Keywords: Coaxial Plasma Discharge, Dense Plasma Focus (DPF), and Pulsed Neutron Source.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA164298
Entities
People
- David M. Woodall
Organizations
- University of New Mexico