Performance of DECADE module 1 (DM1) and the status of the DECADE machine

Abstract

DECADE is a very high pulsed power generator that will be built at Arnold Engineering Development Center in Tullahoma, Tennessee, USA, by the Defense Nuclear Agency. The full facility consists of 16 modules. A full power module (DM1) has been built and tested to verify the DECADE design at Physics International. The module consists of a 570 kJ Marx generator that pulse charges a water transfer capacitor. The transfer capacitor discharges into a water output line through an array of 6 parallel-triggered gas switches. The water output line then pulse charges the inductive store/opening switch pulse compression stage. When the opening switch opens, the inductive store discharges into an electron beam bremsstrahlung diode load. The initial testing of the DM1 module has been completed. The electrical design of the module is presented, including circuit modeling results. The test data from the module are compared to the modeling results. The concept for combining 16 modules that are similar to DM1 into the DECADE generator are presented. Test data from DM1, such as the modular timing jitter, that supports the DECADE system design are also presented.