Numerical Analysis of a Rail Launcher With a Multilayered Armature

Abstract

A new configuration of a rail launcher with a multilayered armature and a multiple system of rails is presented. The aim of the proposed launcher is to improve the current distribution on the armature by contrasting the velocity skin effect that, as known, produces a current concentration on the rear of the armature. This makes it possible to increase the total current on the armature without reaching the melting temperature anywhere. Better performance in terms of launch velocity comes as a consequence. The proposed configuration has been analyzed by using a research computer code; the main characteristics of the launcher are shown, and the most important results are reported. A comparison has been performed with a conventional rail launcher.