Investigation of zigzag wires layout in exploding wire array

Abstract

Exploding wires serving as opening switch are widely used for generation of high-voltage pulse and for switching energy stored in inductive storage to a load. Two factors should be taken into account when designing an exploding wire array (EWA). First, the specific high-voltage pulse amplitude and duration are necessary for specific load. Second, dynamics of wires explosion depends on coating of wire and impurities in metal. So parameters of EWA such as wires material and environment, length, diameter and number of wires should be taken into account and experimentally tested. Geometry of EWA could also significantly influence on the output parameters of the opening switch [1, 2]. Compacting EWA could be useful for parameters of pulse forming network and minimization of inductance of the load connection to EWA. Compact EWA design implies use of non-strait wires, for example, zigzag layout [3]. High-voltage breakdown should be thoroughly considered for a compact EWA design: insulating gas should be considered as an option.