Wave-form optimization for a 60 MA Z-Pinch driver

A new Z-pinch driver is being planned by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) that will provide up to 16 MJ of X-ray radiation. Two load designs are being considered. One is a double Z-pinch configuration, with each load providing 7 MJ radiation. The other is a single Z-pinch configuration that produces 16 MJ. Both configurations require 100 to 120 ns implosion times, and radiation pulse widths of less than 10 ns. These requirements translate into two 40 MA drivers for the double-sided load, and a 60 MA driver for the single-load configuration. The design philosophy for this machine is to work from the load out. Radiation requirements determine the current, pulsewidth, and load-inductance requirements. These parameters set the drive wave-form and insulator voltage, which in turn determine the insulator-stack design. The goal is to choose a drive wave-form that meets the load requirements while optimizing efficiency and minimizing breakdown risk.