The use of finite element analysis techniques for solving rail gun problems

The use of commercial electromagnetic finite-element programs for solving railgun problems such as inductance calculations, force evaluations, and current-density distributions is described. The first code considered, PE2D, is a program for solving the electromagnetic and electrostatic problems described by the Laplace, Poisson, Helmholz or diffusion equations in two dimensions. PE2D is limited in that only 2-D problems can be solved, and that current distributions through rail-armature configurations are not readily calculable. Hence, a three-dimensional code called MEGA is being developed. This program, has been used to calculate the 2-D current-density distributions through rails and armatures; however, it is expected that it will be used to calculate full three-dimensional problems.>