Interconnection
APELC coaxial HV connectors solve problems for the US Department of Energy
High-voltage applications, such as those utilized by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and national laboratories, often require the transmission of fast-rising pulses through coaxial cables to various loads and devices. However, the existing methods of terminating these cables, such as using hose clamps, have posed significant challenges.
T
hese solutions were time-consuming, led to field-enhancement at the cable-to-ground interface, and resulted in frequent cable
dielectric breakdowns. These issues caused extensive downtime and financial losses for laboratories and organizations engaged in high-voltage research and applications.
Solving problems with APELC coaxial HV connectors
Recognizing the limitations of conventional cable termination methods, Applied Physical Electronics L.C. (APELC), an electrical engineering company specializing in the design and manufacturing of pulsed power systems, embarked on a mission to develop a practical solution. Their team of experts focused on creating quick-disconnect connectors specifically designed for high- voltage coaxial cables. These connectors aimed to provide seamless connectivity while maintaining the coaxial impedance and mitigating the risk of electrical breakdown. Through close collaboration with the US Department of Energy and other customers, APELC refined their connector design and introduced the QDF-RG217 connector. This solution changed the way high-voltage cables were terminated and provided numerous benefits for the DOE and other customers.
The implementation of APELC’s coaxial HV connectors brought about significant improvements for the US DOE and other customers. Some of the key benefits and features of the QDF-RG217 connector include:
Enhanced reliability: APELC’s connectors provided a reliable and secure connection for high-voltage coaxial cables, reducing the risk of cable failures and associated downtime. This enhanced reliability ensured uninterrupted operations in critical applications such as advanced linear induction accelerators.
22 July/August 2023
A hose-clamp used to terminate the ground-braid on high- voltage coaxial cable
Connected Disconnected
Sources and Detector (ASD) program at the National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA). Once completed, Scorpius will be a 125-foot- long linear induction accelerator designed to deliver 20 MeV X-rays as an imaging tool for the United States nuclear stockpile. The accelerator is comprised of a large number of induction cells each driven in parallel by multiple pulse generators. The resultant design required thousands of connectors to make the connection between the pulse generators and the accelerator structure. Because of the number of connections and the difficult-to-access nature of the connections, a design was required that was not only reliable but also that required no special tools and could be connected or disconnected without any specialized training. The APELC QD coaxial connector was chosen because of its simplicity and ease of use while providing reliable operation under the high-voltage pulsed conditions of Scorpius. This selection avoided the need for complex installation procedures and specialized training, saving both time and resources.
APELC’s QD-RG217 Quick-disconnect connector for high-voltage coaxial cable
Time efficiency: The quick-disconnect feature of APELC’s connectors enabled faster installation and removal of cables, resulting in improved time efficiency during system maintenance or reconfiguration. This streamlined process allowed for more agile and flexible operations in laboratory environments.
Visual confirmation and error prevention: The inclusion of a high-visibility ring in the connectors offered a clear visual indication of proper engagement. This feature helped prevent incomplete connections, ensuring accurate and secure high-voltage cable connections and minimizing the risk of electrical malfunctions or equipment damage.
Components in Electronics
Long-term durability: APELC’s connectors utilized canted-coil springs in their contacts, ensuring a reliable connection over multiple connect/disconnect cycles. This design feature eliminated the risk of metallic particles causing electrical breakdown, guaranteeing the long-term durability and safety of high- voltage systems.
During a meeting at APELC’s facility in Texas, USA, with DOE personnel, APELC’s coaxial QD connector was noticed for its functionality and suggested for use on the system being designed. Eventually, APELC won a contract for supplying connectors for the Scorpius system as part of the Advanced
APELC’s coaxial HV connectors, particularly the QDF-RG217 model, have proven to be a game-changer for the US DOE and other customers in high-voltage applications, according to APELC. By providing enhanced reliability, time efficiency, visual confirmation, and long-term durability, these connectors have overcome the limitations of conventional termination methods. The successful application of APELC’s connectors in the Advanced Sources and Detector program highlights their effectiveness in demanding and critical environments. APELC continues to innovate in the field of pulsed power systems, delivering practical solutions that drive progress in high-voltage research and applications.
www.apelc.com
www.cieonline.co.uk.uk
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