A Linear Transformer Driver (LTD) with multiple self triggered switches

Multiple switches are normally required for the generation of very high pulse power levels. The critical problem related to multiple switches is how to synchronize them in a short time interval and how to obtain current/voltage balance. A multiple-switch technique based on a TLT (Transmission-Line-Transformer) can solve this problem. It provides a failure-free solution to synchronize multiple switches automatically like in a Marx generator. In contrast to the Marx generator, it can produce pulses with various voltage and current gains and with a high degree of freedom in choosing output impedances. This technology has been investigated systematically. The feasibility of the technology has been demonstrated with a ten-switch (spark gaps) prototype. Pulses with a rise-time of 10 ns, a pulse width of 55 ns, a peak output power of 300-810 MW, a peak output voltage of 40-77 kV, and a peak output current of 6-11 kA have been achieved at a repetition rate of 300 pps and with an energy efficiency of over 93%. Also solid-state switches can be applied in this topology, e.g. proper operation of multiple thyristors has been verified for current multiplication. Moreover, the application of this topology for other circuits, such as Blumlein, Inductive-Voltage-Adder, Linear-Transformer-Driver, was explored.