Mechanical Engineering Upgrades to the DARHT-II Induction Cells

Recent performance and reliability upgrades to the dual axis radiographic hydrodynamic test (DARHT) facility second axis induction cells have impacted various cell mechanical components. To attain a higher level of performance and reliability, key mechanical elements comprising the induction cells were redesigned. These elements include the oil-vacuum insulator assembly, cathode cap, oil and vacuum region cell extension hardware, induction cores´ insulating material and configuration, and the high voltage drive plate. While developing these upgrades, other enhancements, unrelated to the electrical performance, were implemented as well. These enhancements include the solenoid assembly oil- water interface, the oil plumbing and ventilation, and the vacuum bellows assembly. Mechanical processes were also developed to attain high assembly quality during the cell refurbishment process. This paper presents and discusses each mechanical attribute associated with these upgrades of the DARHT second axis induction cells.