a High-Voltage Pulse Transformer for Explosive Pulsed-Power Devices

It is often necessary to use a high-voltage pulse transformer for impedance matching an explosive generator to a higher impedance load. Also, a particular application may require high voltage rather than the high current which flux compressor generators (FCGs) normally deliver when driving suitable low impedance loads. We have designed and built air-core transformers with measured coupling coefficients in the range of 0.88 to 0.94, for use with FCGs. The turns ratio for these transformers vary from 10 to 40. We have used these transformers in FCG shots and have measured 250 kV and 250 kA on the secondary, simultaneously and without breakdown. So far, the FCG and not the transformer have limited the voltage. Experiments to determine a voltage limit are ongoing. Our design and results are presented.