An insulator-metallic cascade for improved electromagnetic flux compression

Various ways of improving the magnetic flux compression efficiency in thetas-geometry are analysed and a cascaded technique is proposed as one of the most likely simple solutions. The main results of previous experiments at Loughborough with shock-loaded aluminium powder specimens are reviewed to provide an understanding of the physics of the powder cascade. Preliminary experimental results of magnetic flux compression using a powder cascade are shown to be encouraging. (4 pages)