A Multiwire Helical Magnetic Cumulation Generator

Abstract

Helical magnetic cumulation generator (HMC-generator) with highly-efficient performance at directly connected load is being described. Results of experiments carried out on relatively small-sized generators are reported. Large energy conversion factors have been shown to be feasible. Comparison is made with calculations. The results of the research have been embodied into a HMC-generator construction characterized by the helix inner diameter of 320 mm and the full length of 1600 mm.

The report gives a detailed description of the generator itself as well as its parameters investigation. The generator consists of separate sections, each as long as its diameter. The sections are manufactured of isolated wires with their beginnings distributed uniformly over the circumference.

Wires number is doubled at passing from a section to the next one. Two kinds of sections are being used in the generator; their initial inductance is equal to 16 and 4 μH respectively.

The helix is enclosed in a concrete “shell”. The central tube with an explosive charge has a conical widening at its end. On the whole the generator design turned out to be a compromise between physical principles (running magnetic wave of a constant amplitude) and reasonable technology. Output energy variation with initial energy and load parameters is plotted. Maximum energy amounts to 16 MJ for the first kind of helix and to 20 MJ for the second kind (efficiency up to 20%). Generator parameters are given for its optimum mode of operation. The current rise curve is well fitted by an exponent. High stability of the generator performance is noted.

The generator output energy deviation does not exceed 10%, from one test to another. The spiral generator has been used as a component of a cascade generator.