A Novel Arbitrary Bi-Polar Current Source For High Dynamic Loads In Plasma, Fusion And Accelerator Applications

In order to supply a wide range of complex and highly dynamic loads such as plasma, arcs etc., Ampegon is working to develop a fast switching current source combined with a voltage source. These power supplies will feature an active load-to-supply matching system. Due to its modular architecture, these power supplies can deliver controlled currents of more than 20kA, while simultaneously controlled voltages up to 20kV can be supplied. The system's operational range includes all pulse widths from DC down to millisecond pulses, while the current can also be functionally modulated, e.g., with sine-waves. It is anticipated that these systems will address a wide range of applications, being used for plasma confinement, plasma ignition, arc generators and pulsed deflector magnets such as septa, bumper and booster magnet supplies in particle accelerators. In addition, the current source features the ability to switch down unknown or undefined impedances, such as arcs. The poster reviews the multi-level inverter-based system topology and possible areas of application where such a power supply provides unique benefits.