500 kA switch-trigger system for 2.0 MJ capacitive pulsed power supply

A switch-trigger system for a 2.0 MJ pulsed power supply module has been developed. This paper discusses the design, construction and testing of this switch-trigger system. In the section about the mathematical principles, the equations of the lifetime and stability of the spark gap switch and its trigger generator are given. Extensive testing has proved the operating parameters of the switch-trigger system. The measured discharge current of the 2.0 MJ capacitive pulsed power supply module is demonstrated to be over 500 kA and the transfer charge per shot is over 150 C. The switch trigger system can support more than 200 kC transfer charge, and it can support simultaneous operation of 20 pairs of xeon flash lamps in theory. Moreover, the lifetime of this switch can be extended by replacing the graphite electrodes adopted.