A novel compact low impedance Marx generator with quasi-rectangular pulse output

Abstract

In this paper, a novel low impedance compact Marx generator with near-square pulse output based on the Fourier theory is developed. Compared with the traditional Marx generator, capacitors with different capacity have been used. It can generate a high-voltage quasi-rectangular pulse with a width of 100 ns at low impedance load, and it also has high energy density and power density. The generator consists of 16 modules. Each module comprises an integrative single-ended plastic case capacitor with a nominal value of 54 nF, four ceramic capacitors with a nominal value of 1.5 nF, a gas switch, a charging inductor, a grounding inductor, and insulators which provide mechanical support for all elements. In the module, different discharge periods from different capacitors add to the main circuit to form a quasi-rectangular pulse. The design process of the generator is analyzed, and the test results are provided here. The generator achieved pulse output with a rise time of 32 ns, pulse width of 120 ns, flat-topped width (95%-95%) of 50 ns, voltage of 550 kV, and power of 20 GW.

Comprehensive Overview of Power Electronics Intensive Solutions for High-Voltage Pulse Generators

“…Marx generators with spark gap switches are generally utilized in high-power applications, whose recent researches focus on miniaturization, compactness and pulse shaping. In [24], based on the Fourier theory, capacitors with different capacity are used to generate near-square pulses. In [25], a coaxial integrated structure is employed to enhance compactness.…”