PROJECT TITLE :

The use of MIL-PRF-87257 hydraulic fluid as a switching medium for a high-power microwave switch

ABSTRACT :

Gigawatt-class repetitive pulsed power applications need reliable, significant-duty closing switches. Coupled with the need for pulse lengths on the order of a microsecond or less for several of these applications, engineers have typically used switch technologies that enable current to flow by inducing an arc (or arcs) in a pressurized, gaseous medium. Alternatively, a flowing, high-pressure liquid dielectric that may be recirculated not only could be used because the switching medium to reduce the physical size of the switch and auxiliary equipment, however also might be integrated into pulsed Power Systems to serve multiple functions. Past research has involved the analysis of many completely different categories of fluids in terms of dielectric breakdown strength and breakdown voltage stability with respect to completely different variables [one]. Variables like dissolved water content, particulates, temperature, viscosity, and pressure can have an impact on the dielectric strength and breakdown variability of dielectric fluids. The results showed that dissolved water content has the greatest result on the dielectric strength and breakdown voltage variability of the fluid [one], [a pair of]. Usually, the dielectric strength decreases and the breakdown voltage variability increases with increasing dissolved water content (Figures one and a pair of).