Matching of a multimodule plasma opening switch to a liner load

One of the key problems of the Baikal project, intended to create a superpower pulsed generator for ICF experiments, is that of matching a multimodule plasma opening switch (POS) to a liner load. An intermediate inductance or a separating discharger is proposed to be used as a matching element between the POS and the load. An analysis is made of the effect of both versions of the matching system on the synchronization of the POS modules and the energy transfer from the inductive storage to the load. Methods for optimizing the matching element are examined. It is shown that the POS modules can be synchronized and the inductive storage energy can be efficiently transferred to a low-impedance load. A multigap vacuum discharger with a point anode and plane cathode is to be used as a separating discharger. Such an electrode system make it possible to concentrate the electric field at the point anode and to substantially enhance the electric strength of the inter-electrode gap. Results are presented from experimental studies of vacuum breakdown in such an electrode system with a gap length of about 1 mm