An Explosive-Driven High-Field System for Physics Applications

Abstract

A simple explosive-driven flux compression system is described for producing magnetic fields in the MG range. The flux-trapping device is a seamless hollow stainless steel cylinder driven by a ring of explosive. The initial field is introduced by a coil pair supplied by a 90-kJ capacitor bank. The assembly is readily evacuated. During implosion, the experimental volume is free of objectionable debris and asymmetries. Peak fields of 1.2 and 4 MG are achieved in working diameters of 8.9 and 3.2 mm, respectively. The usable length is about 15 mm at these fields. Several possible applications are mentioned.