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Dannenberg, R. E.

Publications and source records attributed to Dannenberg, R. E..

At least 19 records

Transient solution for megajoule energy release in a lumped-parameter series RLC circuit

A method is developed for optimizing the energy release from a megajoule capacitive discharge in a series RLC circuit with an RL load. Both the resistance and inductance of the load are represented by effective values that characterize their behavior during the discharge. Using Kirchhoff's laws, equations utilizing the load impedance and the external circuit impedance are derived for determining the instantaneous load voltage and energy characteristics. A program (ERES) computes and displays the load characteristics and the circuit current. Use of the ERES program allows a designer to perturbate values of the circuit elements in order to produce the desired time distribution for the load energy input.

Barnes, G.

'GAIM' - Gas-addition, impedance-matched arc driver

A conceptual view for a GAIM energy/driver system to maximize shock-tube performance through efficient interfacing of the energy source with the gas dynamics of the arc driver is presented. Electrical and arc-chamber requirements are evaluated utilizing two new computer codes. One code calculates the shock wave generated for a selected time rate and magnitude of arc-energy input; the other computes the values of external circuit elements required to produce the selected energy input, with the driver represented as the load element of the electrical discharge circuit. Results indicate that the energy-storage capability and the driver arrangement needed to produce the highest shock Mach number can be achieved by means of driver gas addition and by impedance matching (GAIM). Design criteria are presented for arc energy requirements necessary to produce given shock-wave speeds. Shock velocities as high as the 70 km/sec required for simulating Jovian entry now seem possible in shock-tube operation. Practical implementation of a GAIM system is discussed.

Dannenberg, R. E.

A new look at performance capabilities of arc-driven shock tubes

High shock-tube velocities simulating Jovian entry have been achieved with arc-driver operation using a method of tailoring electrical circuit impedance to arc-plasma impedance. The concept of impedance matching also prescribes a requirement for minimum electrical capacitance. The technique of developing the strongest shock-generating capability for an arc-driver system with the least total energy is discussed. Several programs using the shock tube for developmental research in energy and industrial applications are outlined.

Dannenberg, R. E.

Computer modeling of arc drivers

Model is generated from description of element connections involved in complete arc network, list of corresponding circuit element values, description of circuit current excitation, and list of out-puts desired. Waveform of current is determined by structure of capacitor storage system, driver geometry, and preset driver conditions.

Dannenberg, R. E.

Dynamic Discharge Arc Driver

A computer program using nonlinear RLC circuit analysis was developed to accurately model the electrical discharge performance of the Ames 1-MJ energy storage and arc-driver system. Solutions of circuit parameters are compared with experimental circuit data and related to shock speed measurements. Computer analysis led to the concept of a Dynamic Discharge Arc Driver (DDAD) capable of increasing the range of operation of shock-driven facilities. Utilization of mass addition of the driver gas offers a unique means of improving driver performance. Mass addition acts to increase the arc resistance, which results in better electrical circuit damping with more efficient Joule heating, producing stronger shock waves. Preliminary tests resulted in an increase in shock Mach number from 34 to 39 in air at an initial pressure of 2.5 torr.

Dannenberg, R. E.

A conical arc driver for high-energy test facilities.

Review of some exploratory test results for an electrical discharge driver with a conical-shaped arc chamber. The characteristics of the discharge cycle in the conical chamber and the shock tube performance are described, and the obtained results are compared with those reported by Menard (1971).

Dannenberg, R. E.

Arc driver operation for either efficient energy transfer or high-current generator

An investigation is made to establish predictable electric arcs along triggered paths for research purposes, the intended application being the heating of the driver gas of a 1 MJ electrically driven shock tube. Trigger conductors consisting of wires, open tubes, and tubes pressurized with different gases were investigated either on the axis of the arc chamber or spiraled along the chamber walls. Design criteria are presented for successful arc initiation with reproducible voltage-current characteristics. Results are compared with other facilities and several application areas are discussed.

Dannenberg, R. E.

Electrical instrument measures position and velocity of shock waves

Instrument employs a sensor consisting of twin-electrode probe mounted in shock tube wall, with small dc voltage impressed across electrodes. Power supply, amplifier, and gate pulse generator complete the system. Instrument provides data for construction of wave diagrams, as well as measurement of shock velocity.

Dannenberg, R. E.