Characterization of Marx Generator

This paper discusses the characterization of 200 kV, 20 J mini Marx generator. Marx generators are extensively used in very high voltage fast pulse generation. Capacitors are the major components of Marx generator, apart from the capacitance of the capacitor the other parameters such as internal inductance (Equivalent series Inductance) and Equivalent series resistance (ESR) has significant effect on the output current waveform. The internal inductance of the capacitor, ESR and the discharge path to the load circuit has to be kept as minimum as possible so as to achieve lower characteristic impedance, higher peak current, faster rise time and reduced Full Width Half Maximum(FWHM). Therefore there is a need to determine the internal inductance and ESR of Marx generator. Short circuit discharge test is conducted on the Marx generator to determine the value of total inductance of Marx generator during erection. From the determined value of total inductance of Marx generator L_T and erected capacitance of the Marx C_T, ESR is estimated from the PSPICE circuit. Also maximum output of Marx is estimated using the PSPICE circuit.