A Novel Spark-Gap Trigger Generator Based on a Modular Multilevel Converter
Abstract
A novel modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based spark-gap trigger generator for high-voltage pulsed-power applications has been developed and presented in this work. It fully exploits the inherent modularity of MMC topology to generate high-voltage trigger pulses in a flexible and scalable manner. A prototype based on insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) was constructed to effectively trigger the breakdown of the spark gaps of a Marx Bank consisting of four capacitors charged to 50 kV. It is characterized by a fast rise time and produces pulses of 15 kV with a duration of ~200 ns. Using semiconductors and foil capacitors, the new trigger generator successfully replaces the thyratron-based generator.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Pulsed Power Technology Applications
Electromagnetic Launch and Propulsion Technology
Gyrotron and Vacuum Electronics Research
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Electronics
- Publisher
- MDPI AG
- Volume
- 15
- Issue
- 7
- Pages
- 1489–1489
- Publication date
- 2 April 2026
- Language
- EN