Computational Investigations on the Four-Stage MA-Class Fast Linear Transformer Driver With Sharing Cavity Shell

The four-stage fast linear transformer driver (FLTD) with sharing cavity shell, gas insulation, and pluggable main bricks is the fundamental building block of the next-generation China Z-pinch driver CZ34. This contribution presents the self-consistent electromagnetic (EM) field distributions of the four-stage FLTD using the field-circuit coupled time-domain finite integration technique. Principles and methods on establishing the 3-D EM numerical model are discussed. The first analysis on equivalent inductances of the 92 main discharging bricks in the induction cavity and bricks’ EM characteristics is implemented. Simulated and experimental results demonstrate good consistency in the electrical performance of the four-stage FLTD with sharing cavity shell. Comparisons between the sharing cavity shell and independent cavity shell structures are performed in terms of load current and voltage and EM field distributions. Thus, applicability of the newly developed sharing cavity configuration is confirmed. The EM-interference (EMI) inside the induction cavity of the two kinds of FLTDs is also expounded and compared for the first time. This article offers a novel viewpoint on the related problems and supports the subsequent research activity and efforts to improve the performance of FLTD and Z-pinch machine.