Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on Pulse Modulator Applications
Pulse modulators are essential components in fields such as communications, motor control, radar, and even digital audio. By converting signals into pulses, these modulators improve transmission efficiency and limit noise interference, giving users greater control of power signal outputs. Some pulse modulators can alter numerous signal characteristics, while others function on a single parameter (e.g., pulse position modulation). Multiple switch modules can be combined to accommodate a broad range of pulse modulation applications, including magnetrons, electron guns, and klystrons, as well as custom configurations for specialized functions.
Read on to learn how military, medical, and other key sectors utilize pulse modulators in daily operations and how these specialty systems can meet your requirements.
Industrial Applications
Industrial applications depend on pulsed power generators to control power signal output for any of the following components, processes, and equipment:
Medical devices
Water treatment
Ion implantation
Ozone generation
Exhaust gas treatment
Food processing equipment
Military Applications
Military-grade pulse modulators often use solid-state modulator systems that consist of four main components:
A power rack
The modulator cabinet
The modulator control unit cabinet
The klystron tank
Some of our modulators, such as our Jord Radar Modulators, rely on four independent 50 kW/3kV power supplies in parallel operation to deliver redundancy to the power train. The power supplies are mounted side-by-side to achieve this functionality. Advanced signal controls help regulate variations in the output duty cycle, working alongside charging power supplies to deliver replicable charging performance from the pulse-to-pulse radar’s beam.
Medical Applications
Specialized high-voltage pulse modulators support key processes in medical settings. For example, radiation therapy and proton therapy use precise medical devices that help fight cancer by sending high-energy radiation to specific areas in the patient’s body, killing cancerous cells while avoiding damage to the healthy tissue around it. These devices depend on clean power supplies to ensure precise, dependable operation.
Imaging is another important process that relies on high-voltage pulse modulators. MRI, CAT, and X-ray machines create powerful magnetic fields to create diagnostic images and shield equipment from disruptive electromagnetic and radiofrequency (RF) signals, enabling smooth operation and more reliable results.
Manufacturing Applications
Manufacturing facilities in many different industries use pulsed power to supply high voltages from lower voltage sources. Doing so reduces power consumption, allowing technicians to more safely store and release high-intensity power supplies. Manufacturing applications that use pulse modulators include:
Electromagnets. Suitable for containing, directing, and focusing plasma used in plasma torches, semiconductor manufacturing, and additive manufacturing.
Power supplies. Critical for laser metal cutting and abrasion operations.
Modulators. Used to decontaminate, sterilize, and purify food- and medical-grade equipment.
Radar detectors. Used in numerous radar-based detection systems to ensure signal clarity.
Mass spectrometry equipment. Used to detect and quantify minute substances.
Food Industry Applications
Many food and beverage facilities have electric field (PEF) systems that use targeted pulses to open the cells of fresh produce (known as electroporation). This is a more energy-efficient and precise cutting method compared to pasteurization and HPP processing. It also involves lower temperatures, helping preserve the nutritional content and freshness of food products while effectively inactivating bacteria to increase shelf life.
PEF Advantage Pipe systems with pulsed power technology are also highly effective in processing applications, improving the yield and quality of liquid- and semi-liquid products. They’re compatible with pumping- and non-pumping systems for processing juice, syrup, and mashed foods. This allows manufacturing companies to achieve notable energy savings and consider new product opportunities.
Why Choose Stangenes Industries, Inc.
As a leader in high-voltage pulse modulator design and manufacturing, Stangenes Industries, Inc. has the technology and multi-trade expertise required to fulfill our clients’ exact pulse modulation requirements. Our comprehensive line of custom pulse modulators, transformers, and related electromagnetic devices fulfill even the most sophisticated and demanding signal control functions in diverse applications. We offer solid-state modulators that pulse at just a few kV to over 200 kV and allow for:
Pulse widths between 200 ns and 5 ms
Repetition rates of up to several kHz
Average power ratings up to 150 kW
To learn how Stangenes Industries can meet your application’s pulse modulation requirements, contact us today.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on Current Transducer vs. Current Transformer
There are two main devices that monitor and manage electrical current: current transducers and current transformers. Both current transducers and current transformers are used in various settings to measure electric current, with some key differences. Current transducers convert current for monitoring and assessment, while current transformers divide current so it can safely be used as a power source. In this post, we’ll discuss the major functions of current transducers and current transformers, their different uses, and what makes transformers a strong choice in many applications.
What Is a Current Transducer and How Does It Work?
A current transducer essentially works as a current sensor, turning electrical energy into an output signal for monitoring purposes. This occurs in several steps:
The current enters the system, where the sensitive component will detect it and give a signal to the conversion component.
The conversion component converts the signal to a small current signal and passes it on to the conversion unit.
The conversion circuit processes the small current signal and sends the output signal to a display, automation control system, or other equipment.
There are different transducers that measure different effects. For example, a Hall effect transducer measures magnetic fields (or how a magnetic field changes the voltage levels of a current). Other transducers might rely on Rogowski coils, shunts, fiber optics, or other technologies.
What Is a Current Transformer and How Does It Work?
A current transformer focuses on both power and measurement. It can “step down” or reduce a high electrical current to a lower voltage level, making it safer to monitor. A current transformer can also measure the strength of electric current, such as those in power grid lines or various metering applications.
The donut-shaped transformer has an empty center that the source carrying the incoming current can pass through. There is no contact between the two elements, but they work together to operate as a transformer. This design feature allows for the measurement of the current without contact with the current source, which could potentially disrupt the system.
Benefits of Transformers Over Transducers
The benefits current transformers offer depend on the type of device and the intended application. However, several advantages stand out, including:
High accuracy. Current transformers provide a high degree of accuracy and linearity across a specific current range, while current transducers may provide highly variable results from one device to the next.
Easy installation. Current transformers come in more standardized designs, allowing for more efficient handling and installation. Transducers, by comparison, are much more specialized and require different installation and calibration, depending on the technology and design characteristics.
Cost-effectiveness. Current transformers are typically more affordable compared to current transducers and require minimal maintenance, providing an accessible option for businesses or industrial projects.
Non-contact. A current transformer will isolate the diagnostic circuit from the rest of the system.
Current Transformers From Stangenes Industries Inc.
Stangenes Industries Inc. specializes in current transformers, electromagnetic subassemblies, voltage dividers, and more. Our team of experts uses their extensive knowledge to supply cost-effective, reliable products that support your specific application’s requirements. Along with standard components, we offer customization services to create current transformers for extremely accurate diagnostic processes.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on Made in America
Stangenes Industries is a top manufacturer of electromagnetic components and high-voltage electrical systems. We offer a range of services and products that can meet even the strictest requirements, combining our resources and expertise to uncover the best possible product or system for each application. We cater to customers across a range of industries, including start-ups and Fortune 500 companies. We also work with a large number of laboratories in the U.S. Department of Energy.
The Stangenes Facility
From our grass-roots beginning as a small manufacturer with one full-time employee and an order for five inductors, Stangenes Industries has grown into the premier American pulsed-power supplier to the world.
Company History
Stangenes Industries began in the 1970s as a small manufacturer with a clear vision that helped carry the company to where it is today. We are now a leading international provider of top-quality high-voltage electrical systems and electromagnetic parts for nearly any type of application.
Stangenes Industries’ subsidiary MK Magnetics, established in 2003 in Adelanto, California, equips our company with a team of highly experienced employees. Thanks to the work of this subsidiary and our other ongoing developments, we continue to grow within our industry and across the globe.
Equipment
At Stangenes Industries, we blend innovative technologies with hand-crafted solutions. In utilizing the latest technological developments, we use only the best contemporary materials to optimize our products. Regularly updating and upgrading our offerings allows for continual improvement and maintains optimum efficiency.
Company Culture & Employment
Stangenes Industries gives customers access to reliable staff who will collaborate closely with you to craft the ideal solution based on your needs. Our team works to maintain a safe workspace while also cultivating:
Successful collaboration as a team
Superior customer service
Peak performance for each employee
A healthy culture that promotes respect
Benefits of Working With a U.S. Manufacturer
Some of the main benefits of turning to a U.S. manufacturer for your high-voltage systems or electromagnetic products include:
The experts at Stangenes Industrial work diligently to meet all requirements for each solution in line with all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. To facilitate consistent quality across our products, we maintain a Quality Management System (QMS) that adheres to the following standards:
ISO 9001:2015. This is an international standard establishing key QMS requirements, including particular procedures, processes, and activities that companies need to develop, utilize, optimize, and maintain to achieve long-term success.
MIL-T-27. Many inductors and transformers must comply with this military specification. It discloses the fundamental requirements for a variety of military electronics and communications systems, including audio inductors and transformers, power inductors and transformers, charging inductors, high-power pulse transformers, and saturable inductors and transformers for electronic and communication equipment.
MIL-I-45208. The U.S. Department of Defense is responsible for approving this military contract for multiple departments, including the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, and Defense Supply. This standard helps make sure proper inspection systems are in place to meet the requirements of each contract.
Why Work With Stangenes Industries, Inc.
With over 50 years of experience backing us, Stangenes Industries provides reliable high-voltage systems and electromagnetic components for a breadth of industries. In that time, we’ve served medical, power, nuclear, and other major sectors. Whatever your application demands, our staff of experienced and skilled engineers, designers, and craftspeople are at the ready to help you achieve it.
Our extensive capabilities enable us to develop many types of products, including high-voltage pulse modulators, electromagnets, high-voltage power supply systems, charging inductors, standard and custom transformers, and more. Whenever you require dependable products of superior quality, turn to Stangenes Industries to give you what you need.
Want to discover what we can do for you here at Stangenes Industries and find the right solution for your organization? Contact us today to speak with one of our experts or request a quote for a custom product.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on Non-Intrusive Inspection: What It Is & How It Works
What is Non-Intrusive Inspection?
Non-intrusive cargo scanning uses equipment that can produce high-speed electron beams to detect contraband. Using non-intrusive inspection technology eliminates the need for vessel entry throughout the inspection process.
NII equipment offers a safer, more cost-effective alternative to time-sensitive inspection programs that typically require entry to achieve a thorough cargo inspection. NII inspection also caters to missile and military scanning applications.
How Does Non-Intrusive Inspection Work?
CT Scanning
The U.S. Air Force’s System Program Office (SPO) opened its Computed Tomography (CT) facility in 1995, utilizing the ICT 2500 CT system to implement large-scale non-destructive inspection (NDI) processes. This system measures material characteristics such as dimension and density. CT can also detect the rise in flaws over time and subtle changes in the material properties to identify key aging trends.
CT technicians utilize contrast variation, advanced image manipulation, and color mapping to derive the following curves:
Modulation Transfer Function (MTF)
Contrast Discrimination Function (CDF)
Contrast-Detail-Dose (CDD)
Variables considered in the imaging process include the number of X-ray pulses per sample, the z increment between slices, and the thickness and resolution apertures at the detector.
Other Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology
Radiological and nuclear detection equipment includes:
Personal Radiation Detectors (PRD)
Radiation Portal Monitors (RPM)
Radiation Isotope Identification Devices (RIID)
Non-intrusive techniques used to inspect cargo range from large-scale X-ray and Gamma-ray imaging systems to the following technologies:
Acoustic Emission (AE)
Magnetic Flux Exclusion (MFE)
Phased Array (PA)
Portable and Handheld Equipment
Power Modulators
Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC)
Radiography (RT)
Time-of-Flight Diffraction (TOFD)
Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
Applications of Power Supplies: NII: Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) Scanning Technology
Non-intrusive inspection (NII) technology is used by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to identify narcotics, weapons, and other contraband that can pose radiological and nuclear threats. Large volumes of items can be assessed while maintaining the flow of passengers, trade, and cargo.
The CBP currently employs 1,469 RPMs to inspect mail and express consignment parcels, truck cargo, and personal vehicles arriving from Mexico and Canada.
Gamma-Ray Imaging Systems
Gamma-ray imaging systems are more effective than x-ray inspection systems at penetrating dense materials, providing a more detailed image of the cargo contents. This non-intrusive inspection technology is especially useful for scanning heavily shielded materials.
Industrial X-ray and Gamma-ray scanning systems utilize some or all of the following:
Ancillary Inductors and Transformers
Beam Bending Magnets
Capacitor Charging Power Supplies
Focusing Solenoids
Power Modulators
Pulse Transformers
Other Applications
NII has also been used to effectively detect cracking, corrosion, hydrogen damage, and other integrity concerns in the following:
Other uses for NII include scanning inspections for cargo, missiles, and military applications, as well as food sterilization and X-ray computed tomography.
Benefits of Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology
The non-intrusive inspection process provides the following benefits:
Detailed inspection requirements that lead to better reporting and planning
Optimized productivity with in-service inspections
Reduced costs and downtime
Reduced potential of hydrocarbon damage
Safer inspection than conventional means (which eliminates hazards from asset entry)
Well-defined and targeted inspection planning
Learn More About Non-Intrusive Inspection
Stangenes Industries provides beam-bending magnets, focusing solenoids, ancillary inductors, ancillary transformers, capacitor charging power supplies, pulse transformers, and power modulators. Our products support a range of non-intrusive inspection processes and offer the perfect solution for anyone replacing legacy power systems.
Contact us or request a quote to learn more about how our non-intrusive inspection technology can help your business. Our upcoming eBook offers comprehensive information about our available advanced technologies for cargo inspection.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on How to Prevent Voltage Droop
Voltage droop in modulators can affect critical equipment such as particle accelerators. The droop can happen within microseconds, potentially disrupting equipment operation.
Here, we’ll explore voltage droop in more detail, why and when it occurs, and the causes of voltage droop to help you understand and prevent the effects of this phenomenon. We will also discuss innovative technology that can prevent voltage fluctuations and dips at the modulator.
What Is Voltage Droop?
Voltage droop is a temporary voltage output decrease that occurs in pulsed electronic devices like modulators. The voltage decrease falls below nominal or desired levels due to certain factors during operation. In modulators, the voltage can drop 1% within millionths of a second.
Ultimately, pulse droop affects the efficiency of the electron tube, which defines the overall efficiency of the system. Eliminating pulse droop lowers overall total power input for cost savings and reduces environmental impact because of that efficiency.
Why and When Does Voltage Drop Occur?
Voltage droop is usually preceded by a sudden increase in load demand, characterized by a sharp overshoot of voltage, followed by an abrupt drop in voltage below desired levels, usually by about 1%. All of this can happen within microseconds. Stabilization mechanisms then restore voltage to proper levels.
Even slight droops can affect tube output. These sudden load demand increases and temporary voltage drops can cause the tube to produce inferior beams. Excess voltage can impact the energy efficiency of the system, cause overheating, and lead to equipment damage and failure. In long pulse applications, modulators need a complex voltage compensation circuit to prevent the voltage droop and maintain reliable, efficient system operation.
What Causes Voltage Drop in High-Voltage Modulators?
Marx modulators with solid-state switches are more reliable and adjustable than conventional modulators. However, when used to create long high-voltage pulses, such as those required for particle accelerators, Marx generators run into issues intrinsic to these generators. During discharge, the Marx voltage naturally decays over time. Long pulse widths or small time constants in the resistor-capacitor circuit will increase voltage reduction at the end of the pulse.
Electrostatic accelerator free electron laser (FEL) oscillators also face issues with the amount of electron beam lost due to voltage droop as it approaches the electron tube. This quick, indiscernible drop in voltage could potentially disrupt tube output.
Voltage droop is a result of several factors in modulators. Some of the primary causes of voltage droop include:
Power Supply Instability: Instability and fluctuations in the voltage from the power supply to the modulator can result in voltage droop. Instability may result from insufficient supply capacity and variations from the input power source.
Load Changes: In military radar applications, where every pulse has a different width and amplitude, voltage droop can result from sudden changes in load from devices connected to the modulator. These load increases can come from sudden spikes in machinery power consumption or numerous appliances operating simultaneously, either of which may cause a sudden overload in the modulator and a drop in voltage.
Power Source Limitations: Voltage droop may also occur when power supply sources are operating near maximum capacity.
Impedance Mismatch: Voltage droop can follow from a mismatch in impedance between the modulator and load, especially if the load impedance difference is significant. High impedance and resistance in the power transmission and distribution system can also cause a voltage drop as the current flows through the systems.
Preventing Voltage Droop with Stangenes’ Solid-State Technology
It is critical to consider load characteristics, component selection, and power supply design to maintain modulator performance and mitigate voltage droop. Stangenes Industries’ patented pulse droop compensator is a parallel boost network that offers droop compensation for all pulse length applications. The compensator can produce a 3.2 kV/3.2 A pulse for 3.6 ms with greater than 1% stability. These adaptive circuits are built into our modulators, resulting in less than 1% droop.
This patented technology is a major milestone in the pulsed power industry, and it is suitable for users requiring electrical power for pulse generators. With Stangenes Industries’ solid-state technology, laboratories benefit from higher reliability and reduced downtime while commercial users benefit from higher profits.
Pulse Modulator Configurations Offered
Complete “turnkey” systems or an individual component for your system
Solid-state Marx designs with or without a pulse transformer
Dynamically adjustable repetition rate, pulse width, and pulse amplitude
“Line-type” modulator with a pulse transformer and solid-state switching
“Hard tube configuration” with pulse transformer using solid-state switching
Voltage Droop Control Solutions From Stangenes Industries
Voltage droop can result from various factors and cause detrimental effects on the quality of the pulse. It is critical to prevent voltage droop by understanding when and how it occurs and taking the appropriate precautions.
Stangenes Industries offers pulse droop control technology built into our modulators. We have been in the industry since 1974 and have grown to over 100 employees serving the manufacturing, research, medical, and military markets. We continuously deliver innovative electromagnetic equipment solutions to customers from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. Request a quote to learn more about our modulators and voltage droop protection solutions.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on Understanding the Role of Power Supplies in RF Systems
RF energy sources generate high-frequency electromagnetic fields. Though they’re commonly used in communications applications, RF power supply systems can power a wide range of applications through both transformer and transformerless options.
These high-frequency electromagnetic fields resonate inside cavities to generate specific signals, frequencies, and secondary fields. In particle accelerators, for example, RF cavities can accelerate particles at very specific increments through a strong electric field.
Learn more about the various applications of RF power supplies, their roles in RF systems, and how Stangenes can help with your next RF system project.
Applications of RF Power Supply
RF energy was primarily used in communications contexts, but today’s RF power supplies apply to a wide range of industrial and government applications. Some of the most impactful uses of RF power supply are the following:
Medical
RF power supplies find crucial applications in the medical field, playing a pivotal role in various diagnostic and therapeutic equipment. These power supplies are integral components in technologies like MRI machines, where they facilitate the generation of the high-frequency magnetic fields necessary for imaging soft tissues with exceptional clarity and precision. Other medical applications include delivering precise doses of radiation in medical radiation therapy.
Military
Military organizations around the world use RF power supplies to use a wide range of communications tools and technology, including lasers, radars, directed energy devices, and more. RF power supplies are also used in Active Denial Systems, which are long-range and non-lethal beams of waves for counter-personnel applications. Large pulse transformers in RF systems can generate 1.5MV 1800 A capabilities for charging capacitors used in flash X-ray photography.
Research
RF power supplies are important in particle accelerator facilities, as they excite particles to specific levels and accelerations for experiments. Researchers also use RF to generate particle beams and test their effects on different materials and material prototypes.
Manufacturing
Manufacturers use RF power supplies to produce and finish specialty goods by generating an electron beam. The beam can alter materials during the manufacturing stage to change their characteristics, apply surface-level finishes, and more. RF power supplies also play a role in air and gas containment systems.
The Relationship Between RF Energy Systems and Power Supply
RF energy systems rely on a stable power supply that won’t fluctuate or cause disruptions. Electronics depend on a well-regulated, filtered power supply with the right components to eliminate interference with no risk of noise or uncontrolled variations in power strength; without these protective measures, the signal could distort, or power fluctuations could negatively impact performance.
To achieve optimal RF stability and function, power supplies interconnect with RF energy system components like magnets, modulators, inductors, and transformers. Well-built power supplies will interact with these components to create the best possible signal and capabilities.
Magnets
Magnets can focus, bend, and otherwise manipulate RF beams and detect activity within a magnetic field. The three most commonly used magnets are hollow tube, wire wound, and foil wound varieties. RF energy systems use magnets in applications like MRIs, which detect atomic-level behaviors.
Modulators
High-voltage pulsed modulators send a modulated signal to a tube that amplifies that signal. These modulators are critical in directed energy applications, such as the linear accelerators that advance the fields of scientific research and medical oncology. Linear accelerators use high-voltage pulses to accelerate charged particles, which are then used to study materials at the molecular and atomic levels.
These particle accelerators also play a key role in oncology by directing precise, high-energy X-ray beams to cancerous cells with minimal damage to healthy tissue. Thus, high-voltage pulsed power modulators help deliver more accurate radiation doses to patients while minimizing their side effects. Modulators rely on RF power supplies that generate the right voltage and current to activate and modulate the signal.
Inductors
Inductors are components in RF circuits, such as resonators, amplifiers, and filters. They oppose changes in current levels (either increases or decreases) and can passively store energy.
Transformers
Transformers use electromagnetic induction to move energy from one circuit to the next, typically increasing or decreasing voltage along the way.
Transformers have different numbers of windings, which determines how much the voltage will change as the signal generates a magnetic field, induces a voltage in the secondary winding, and continues along the path. RF transformers are frequently used for the following:
Voltage step-up or step-down in electrical systems
Impedance matching so power can transfer efficiently across the transformer
Blocking DC while allowing AC continuity
Generating Powerful RF With Stangenes
Stangenes specializes in creating high-performance RF power systems and components. One of our signature products is our large pulse transformer, which can generate very large pulses of RF, up to 1.5MV 1800 A. This transformer has a wide range of applications, including:
Charging capacitors for flash X-ray photography
Photographic nuclear detonation
Other uses that require extremely powerful Klystron-created beams
Choosing the right transformer for RF systems is essential for generating precise signals with the right strength and stability.
RF Power Supply Systems From Stangenes
RF power supplies are a critical part of every RF system. They must generate concentrated fields to provide the right level of power for niche applications. At Stangenes Industries, Incorporated, we design and develop RF power supply systems for applications ranging from nuclear detonators to material research.
Request a quote today to access the right RF power supply tools for your systems.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on What Is a Capacitive Voltage Divider?
A voltage divider is a type of passive linear circuit generating an output voltage that is a fraction of the input voltage. It’s possible to create these circuits using fixed-value resistors or reactive components.
The Stangenes offering of capacitive voltage dividers are specially created for diagnostic and monitoring applications, also commonly referred to as voltage monitors. These components can take a multi-kilovolt signal and output a low voltage signal that can be read on oscilloscopes and other monitoring devices.
Introduction to Capacitive Voltage Dividers
When deciding whether to use a capacitive voltage divider, understanding how it works can help.
Typically, when two interlinked circuit elements form a series, the input voltage divides through the elements. When circuit elements are interlinked but parallel, the electrical current will also normally split through the components. As a result, series circuits operate under the voltage divider rule while parallel circuits operate under the current divider rule.
Also called the potential divider rule, the voltage divider rule is crucial for analyzing circuits by helping calculate each element’s individual voltage.
The elements of the circuit will dictate the category of the voltage divider rule, particularly these three categories:
Capacitive voltage divider
Resistive voltage divider
Inductive voltage divider
How Does a Capacitive Voltage Divider Work?
These devices work by connecting two capacitors in a series with a resistor. One capacitor receives the input voltage, while the other is grounded. You can modify the voltage ratio between both capacitors by changing their resistance values.
The electrical current travels through the divider via the resistors, forming an electrical field in the process. This field influences each capacitor’s charge and thus alters their respective voltages. The benefit of this operation is the ability to precisely control circuit voltage levels without any physical adjustment to the circuit elements.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Capacitive Voltage Divider
Capacitive voltage dividers offer several key benefits and disadvantages.
Some of the advantages of these devices include:
Reduced resistance — Compared to resistors, capacitive voltage dividers have less resistance, meaning less dissipation of waste energy as heat.
Optimized accuracy and precision — Using a series of capacitors offers superior accuracy and precision compared to resistors and other dividers.
Low power consumption — Voltage divider capacitors need minimal power to function, which is why they’re ideal for low-voltage applications.
Meanwhile, some potential downsides of using capacitive voltage dividers could include:
More expensive than other types of dividers — Lower voltage capacitive dividers can be more costly than other types of dividers. Higher voltage resistive dividers can also be expensive.
Increased complexity — To get the best results from these dividers, it’s critical to carefully calculate and design them, which can limit their use in some applications.
Sensitivity to temperature fluctuations — Ambient temperature can significantly influence the divider output, potentially leading to inaccuracies. This is why Stangenes uses temperature-compensating components to reduce this effect.
Capacitive Voltage Dividers from Stangenes Industries
Depending on your application, you may benefit from the use of a voltage divider capacitor. Stangenes Industries offers capacitive voltage dividers as well as compensated resistive voltage dividers in nearly any size or shape to meet your unique specifications. Our voltage dividers can be used for pulse voltages up to 800 kV, and we can custom-make units suitable for higher voltages.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on How Is A Current Transformer (CT) Used In Metering?
Metering processes rely on having accurate insight into energy consumption across the grid. Energy providers need to know how much energy every attached residence, commercial property, or even individual portion of the grid is using to best keep up with demand and provide consistent service.
Current transformers (CTs) provide this invaluable function with options like measuring RF beam current or measuring a filament current, which gives off measurable electrons after heating up.
There are multiple different CT options on the market, such as industrial-level meters that can measure current across national grids and more moderate CTs used by the electrical power industry to maintain local and regional functionalities. There are even residential and commercial KWh CTs used for net metering at 120V or 240V.
Learn more about the importance of CTs in industrial-scale power systems, how they work, and how Stangenes can help with your next project.
Introduction to Current Transformers in Metering
Current transformer units play a primary role in metering. These components can measure the total current flowing through a system, which equates to the downstream consumption within the grid or system. They primarily measure current via RF. After the energy transforms to RF, system operators can use the CTs to monitor flow, track changes, and stay apprised of real-time or aggregate consumption. Industrial-level current transformers are particularly vital because they can safely measure high levels of current. Depending on the inside diameter of the CT, it can also measure at high voltages of up to 100,000 V.
How Do Current Transformers Work in Metering?
Current transformers don’t directly measure the alternating current flowing through an industrial power grid. Often, the alternating current is too high, making it too difficult for the meter to read. Instead, the current flows through the system’s primary coil. As a result of the movement, it produces a magnetic field, which generates a proportionally lower current that flows through a secondary coil.
Current transformers measure the current flowing through that secondary system to gauge the true consumption or current usage.
Picture this general setup: a customer’s conductor provides the primary current through the circuit, which couples to the winding of the current transformer. The current transformer winding, which picks up the electromagnetic field’s current, is connected to a meter or measuring device which provides the data output.
At Stangenes, our CTs connect with a conductor that passes through the center of the system to provide an accurate measurement of amps per volt.
Choosing the right CT products is essential for safe, accurate current monitoring and measuring. We advise that you consider the following:
CTs should focus on the induced current, which reduces the amount of current that flows through the meter.
The CT and metering apparatus should create a low-impedance path. This prevents loading on the primary conductor.
Current transformers need to measure the current without loading it. Using systems that measure the current in a secondary coil as a reflection of the current in the primary coil is best.
There are many different current transformers that can read meters, monitor small or national power grids, and provide continuous monitoring. Each device will need to meet specific criteria and ratings to ensure it can properly handle the current and voltage in the environment.
Applications of CT Metering
Industrial-level current transformer metering devices are used in the power industry to equip organizations with meter reading capabilities, as well as the ability to continuously monitor the power grid at large.
At Stangenes, one of the most common applications for our current transformers is measuring current that flows into klystron and other electron tubes at high power levels. Our CTs can adjust to optimize output, detect wear and tear, and provide consistent monitoring for our clients. With these devices, users can ensure real-time performance aligns with expected performance and output.
Current Transformers in Beam Instrumentation and Particle Accelerators
CTs can also be used outside of the electric power industry. Additional applications include the following:
Accelerating and measuring electron beams in sophisticated systems like the CERN Hadron Collider
Measuring the current in particle beams, kick magnets, and pulsed power modulators in physics laboratories
Choose Stangenes Current Transformers for CT Metering
Measuring current is a vital step in generating and distributing electricity, ensuring consistent performance, and even completing complex physics experiments.
Stangenes is a leading provider of high-performance current transformers that can provide long-lasting service in these applications. Our company is committed to creating innovative products that improve energy efficiency while reducing energy costs.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on The Evolution and Future of Pulsed Power
Pulsed power is a technology that allows energy storage over an extended period followed by a much shorter, concentrated release of the energy.
The technology delivers a pulse of energy that carries a significant amount of power to a target or recipient. Pulsed-power technology releases energy in a way that allows it to deliver substantial results from a relatively small amount of power. It can also have a distinct impact on certain materials, causing reactions that open up new fields of study relating to the technology and its interactions.
As pulsed power evolves, the technology becomes less limited. Various industries and sectors rely on pulsed power, and the technology is emerging as a solution in several developing instrumentations.
Meeting the Limitations of Pulsed Power
Pulsed-power technology exists mostly in laboratory environments due to its limitations, which include the following:
Safety considerations
Electromagnetic interference
Cost constraints
Limited scalability
Pulsed-power equipment is complicated and expensive, but recent advances in technology are making it more flexible and affordable. The technology demonstrates significant potential to revolutionize industries as it evolves.
An Evolution of Pulsed Power Technologies
Pulsed-power technology is evolving rapidly with diverse applications and uses in the changing landscape of applied physics. The technology is used in agriculture, plasma diagnostics and medicine, defense, materials, and energy sectors. Various devices depend on high-power electromagnetic pulse sources, including neutron pulses, lasers, microwaves, electron beams, and fusion technology.
Pulsed-power technology is a solution for sterilization, food processing, water treatment, waste purification, and surface treatment applications. Development focuses on addressing longevity in industrial applications, reliability, size, consistent power, and frequency repetition challenges while delivering higher power using refined devices.
The Potential of Pulsed Power: Looking to the Future
Pulsed power has the potential to disrupt a wide range of fields and make an impact on the world as a whole. Pulsed-power systems are improving in efficiency and becoming available for researchers in various fields of study. It is being researched as a potential solution for medical procedures, such as less energy-intensive X-ray machines, and as a more efficient means of water purification.
For example, researchers worldwide are studying pulsed power supply as a water purification solution. Using electric fields generated by pulsed power, scientists can develop systems to eliminate harmful viruses and bacteria, including those that resist antibiotics. The technology could revolutionize the creation of clean drinking water while consuming less energy.
Pulsed Power Systems From Stangenes
While pulsed power was once limited to laboratory environments, advances are reducing the limitations of complexity and cost of the equipment.
Lower cost and complexity equipment have paved the way for developments in the technology, making it a more accessible solution for industries like agriculture, defense, and medicine. Scientists and engineers are working on pulsed power solutions for water purification, sterilization, and food processing applications. The technology is also improving in power, consistency, repetition, and overall device improvement. Pulsed power is disrupting industries as a potential solution to many issues, such as drinking water availability worldwide.
At Stangenes, we deliver pulsed power solutions to various industries. We strive to be a leader in pulsed power, leveraging our high voltage pulsed modulators and developing our parallel boost network to compensate for droop in long pulse applications.
Stangenes offers several modulator combinations and configurations. Our Marx modulators come with dynamically adjustable pulse amplitudes, widths, and repetition rates. We offer flexible systems using a solid-state Marx design that works with or without a coupled pulse transformer. Stangenes’ high-voltage pulse modulators optimize pulse power application with their high-precision control.
Request a quote to speak with a team member about the pulsed-power solution for your application.
Posted by Stangenes Industries Content Team on | Comments Off on Why Choose Solid State Technology?
Solid-state technologies offer more potential than conventional gas-powered and oil-powered options. As these technologies become more prevalent, it’s important to know the specific benefits they can generate for your industry and organization.
At Stangenes Industries, we specialize in creating and developing cutting-edge transformer designs, solid-state modulators, and charging power supplies that can make those benefits a reality. Learn more about how emerging solid-state technology can power your organization’s operations and how our team can help you do it.
What Is Solid State?
Solid-state systems and devices rely on electronics for switching functions, like diodes and transistors, rather than older systems that rely on oil or gas as a power source. Today’s solid-state devices (SSDs) have semiconductors—made from gallium nitride, germanium, silicon, and silicon carbide—that can handle programmable operations and complex functions far beyond the capabilities of the first solid-state systems of the middle of the 20th century.
These systems are starting to replace older technologies in every sector. In high-voltage systems, for example, organizations are removing thyratrons, spark gaps, and magnetic switches with SSDs like HCTs, IGCTs, IGBTs, and MOSFETs.
Solid-state technology is characterized by:
Electrical power
Switching functions performed by diodes and transistors
The potential to convert from AC to DC by using diodes as rectifiers
Why Is Solid State Better?
While newer facilities and organizations often start their journey with solid-state technology, many older facilities or operations continue to employ older technologies like pulse forming networks (PFNs), or gas based switches.
On the surface, sticking with these older technologies can be tempting—making the switch is temporarily inconvenient and can require a lot of readjustments. However, virtually every organization benefits by updating their systems to solid-state technologies and phasing out gas- and oil-powered systems.
Benefits of Solid-State Technology
Solid-state technology offers more than a change in mechanics. It increases the operational capabilities of systems by increasing power and programmable logic. SSDs are also far more accessible than many alternatives.
Availability
Old, gas-powered modulators used to be the norm in many systems. However, many companies no longer produce these parts, making them harder to find, more expensive to replace, and even harder to repair. This is made even more challenging because old, gas-powered components were also manufactured through processes that are not considered sustainable—the gasses degrade into hazardous component gasses.
SSDs, on the other hand, are rapidly becoming more popular and available, increasing companies’ access to parts, repair systems, and replacement systems on the market. The growing market also allows for companies to source components from multiple sources, which helps shield companies from market fluctuations and product obsolescence.
Power
While older systems may be more powerful than a single silicone switch, today’s SSDs feature multiple stackable switches that provide comparable power and more reliable performance. The increased market for higher powered switches drives innovation and research to develop even better products with newer materials.
Programmable Logic
Programmable logic is more flexible than previous transistor based logic components, and runs on smaller devices. It uses parameter logic to make computations, and the system grants far more flexibility because different operations and sequences can be programmed in. This is superior to hardwired standard logic, which was far more inflexible.
Other Benefits of SSDs
Other benefits of choosing solid state technology over alternatives include:
Durability: Solid-state technology is more durable because it doesn’t rely on moving parts that can wear out or fail to connect. While chemical exposure, impact damage, and high levels of heat can damage SSDs, they don’t have the additional long-term vulnerabilities of more conventional technologies.
Compactness: SSDs also take up less space. Modern solid-state computers are dramatically slimmer than older computers. Similarly, high-energy density, surface-mounted through-hole components like modern diodes and resistors are much smaller than older components, resulting in smaller circuit boards and assemblies. This means more computing power can fit in less space.
Efficiency: Solid-state equipment wastes less energy in the form of excess heat and light than other technologies. Many systems may still require heat sinks as they generate some excess heat, but more of the input power generates efficient output.
Potential Drawbacks of SSDs
Although SSDs have become increasingly popular due to their smaller size and faster performance, they do have some limitations in high-powered applications. While most of the electronic world is moving to smaller, faster devices, there is still a need for high-voltage and high-current devices. Currently there is no single device that can fully replace a spark gap or thyratron, only multi-component systems. As more research is put into SSDs, the industry must demonstrate the need for these higher-power devices and invest in researching solutions that can bridge the gap between current SSD capabilities and the demands of high-powered applications.
Industries That Utilize Solid-State Technology
Solid state technology is used in virtually every sector, from the military to consumer goods. At Stangenes Technologies, we serve the following industries with innovative solid-state solutions:
Military: We provide military organizations with solid-state modulator systems that include a power rack, a Klystron tank, a modulator cabinet, and a modulator control unit cabinet.
Medical: We provide compact Klystron and magnetron solid-state modulators. These are used by medical facilities for direct energy therapies.
Research: Our engineering team is currently developing replacement solid-state technologies for thyratron switches in pulse-forming networks.
General Industry: Companies can turn to our solid-state modulators for food decontamination processes, scanning, and more.
Contact Stangenes Technologies for Your Solid State Technology Needs
Upgrading to solid-state technology doesn’t just increase performance and flexibility. It can also help organizations solve the increasing prices and rarity of parts for older systems. Contact the team at Stangenes Technologies to learn more about converting to solid-state technology, or request a quote for more details.
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