Design and Optimization of Delphi-Based Electromagnetic Coilgun

In classical gun and satellite launching systems, noise, flame, and hazardous gasses occur during the explosion of gunpowder, and it is possible to change the muzzle velocity of projectile only during the production phase. In addition, negative aspects of classical guns include the storage of munitions, their decay in time, high amount of their mass, and their high cost. In this paper, “A New Electromagnetic Coilgun” is designed to allow acceleration of a ferromagnetic projectile with the help of instantaneous alternate current applied on four sequential stator coils without using any mechanical boosters. programmable interface controllers microcontroller software and Delphi software were used to obtain the data from optic systems placed at the beginning of stator coils for gradual velocity measurement of the projectile, to process the same, and to perform triggering checks. Furthermore, such Delphi-based software allowed to improve the muzzle velocity by changing the triggering time for coils and, thus, to optimize the system. This paper is distinguished from other studies in the literature in terms of the software used and the design of accelerating coil. Data communication was ensured through the serial port of the PC during the launching process. The study examined the effects of variables such as the voltage applied on coils, number of turns of the coil, and the number of capacitors on the maximum muzzle velocity that may be obtained through the launcher and these were discussed in detail in the scope of the paper.