Caballero: A high current flux compressor system for 100 MJ solid liner experiments

Pulse power systems delivering in excess of 100 MJ represent one of the nex t major challenges to the community. While laboratory pulse power systems i n this energy range are feasible, they represent very substantial investmen ts of both time and resources. Prudence requires that fundamental proof of principle for the contemplated application be established before such massi ve resources are committed. Explosive pulse power systems using magnetic fl ux compression provide a direct path to such demonstrations. Furthermore, a s energy requirements grow, they may represent the only affordable source o f ultrahigh energy environments. In this paper we report the results of an experimental test of a first gene ration disk generator system. Individual disk segments have been tested wit h framing camera diagnostics to evaluate overall performance dynamics and m aterial, and fabrication failure points. In general no bulk failures were o bserved in several shots and the critical weld joints were seen to maintain integrity for at least 4 mu s after arrival of the detonation front. Singl e module pulse power experiments have been conducted at reduced initial cur rent (1.5-2.0 MA) with a fixed inductance load of 0.22 nH.