Optimization Design of a Repetitive Nanosecond Pulse Generator Based on Saturable Pulse Transformer and Magnetic Switch

Saturable pulse transformer (SPT) and magnetic switch (MS) are widely used together in pulse generators (PGs). It is easy to obtain a desirable output with a high voltage and low rise time when choosing the suitable PG topology. A compact, unipolar, and repetitive high-voltage nanosecond PG, which is based on SPT and MS, is designed and constructed. The operation principles of the resonant charging based on SPT and MS are described. The design and performance optimization of the magnetic components including SPT and MS are presented. The minimum volume of the SPT is derived and verified in the experiment. The core volume and turns of the MS are determined both considering the charging process and the output characteristic. The saturation times of the pulse transformer and MS can be optimally determined based on the – curve, which is obtained under the same working conditions. It reveals that the design and performance optimization methods of the SPT and MS are reasonable and can be used to guide the design of pulse transformers and MSs in pulsed power, power electronics, and industrial electronics.