Solid state Marx Generator using series-connected IGBTs

This paper describes a newly developed novel repetitive impulse voltage generator using a boost converter array. To solve problems such as short life time, low operating frequency, and the fixed pulse width of conventional generators, the proposed generator is designed with a boost converter array that employs series-connected capacitors and insulated gate bipolar transistors. The circuit can easily obtain a high-voltage pulse without any high-voltage direct current source and pulse transformer. Thus, the proposed circuit not only allows elimination of the expensive high-frequency transformer but also allows operation at a frequency up to several kilohertz with high reliability and longer life span. To validate the proposed circuit, two pulse generators rated at 1.8 kV, 40 A and 20 kV, 300 A are implemented and tested.