Crowbar diodes are used for increasing the energy transfer from capacitive pulse forming networks. They also prevent voltage reversal on the energy storage capacitors. 52 mm diameter diodes with a 5 kV reverse blocking voltage, rated 40 kA, were successfully used for the 32 MJ SSG (single shot gun) railgun. An uprated diode with increased current capability and a 15 kV reverse blocking voltage has been developed. Transient thermal analysis has predicted the current ratings for different pulse lengths. Analysis verification is obtained from destructive testing.>
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Dethlefsen et al. (1993) studied this question.