An optimization method for passive muzzle arc control devices in augmented railguns

Abstract In this paper, a passive muzzle arc control device (PMACD) of the augmented railguns is studied. By discussing its performance at different numbers of extra rails, a parameter optimization model is proposed. Through the calculation model, it is found that the PMACD works well in the simple railgun, which refers to the gun that there is only one pair of rails in the inner bore. The PMACD may decrease the simple railgun’s armature peak current and muzzle arc, but affect its muzzle velocity not much. However, in the augmented railguns it has different characteristics. If the parameters of the PMACD are not selected suitable. It may increase the armature peak current and muzzle arc, but greatly decrease the velocity. The reason for this problem is that the extra rails generate a strong magnetic field in front of the armature, which induces a large current to change the armature current. It is also found that when the resistance and inductance parameters of the PMACD satisfy with the optimization formula, the PMACD can also play a good role in arc suppression in the augmented railguns. Experiments of an augmented railgun with a stainless steel PMACD are carried out to verify this optimization method. Results show that the muzzle arc is obviously controlled. This work may provide a reference for the design of the muzzle arc control device.