OPENING SWITCHES FOR A 5 MJ, 1 MA ENERGY-STORAGE TRANSFORMER

This paper compares two possible switch topologies used to switch the primary of an energy storage transformer. A series connected semiconductor/vacuum interrupter switch and an all solid-state switch are sized for a 5 MJ energy storage transformer. Gate-turn-off thyristors are used as the semiconductor switches. Total mass estimates, operating characteristics, and applicability to a space-based pulsed power system are discussed. Both designs store the commutation energy in capacitors. The commutation energy is then dissipated in resistors after switching has occurred. The capacitor mass is shown to dominate the total switch mass. Therefore, the mass of both switches is approximately equal. The advantages of the all solid-state switch include high reliability, no moving parts, proven design, and a high probability of future mass reduction with new semiconductor device developments. The all solid-state switch has a higher on-state power dissipation than the vacuum interrupter switch. We propose that the advantages of the all solid-state switch outweigh the disadvantage of higher power dissipation.