Railgun Programs at CEM-UT

The Center for Electromechanics at The University of Texas at Austin (CEM-UT) is engaged in several programs researching electromagnetic (EM) accelerators. These programs range from railguns (which accelerate solid and plasma armatures) to coaxial accelerators. A description of each of the major programs is provided with an emphasis on experimental apparatus and capabilities of the launcher and range. Discussed in the paper are micrometeorite impact studies of 50 to 500 μm diameter glass beads accelerated to 11 km/s with plasma armatures, 2.5 kg solid armature packages launched to 2.6 km/s, and a 0.60 caliber launcher capable of a three-shot burst at a 10 Hz repetition rate. A coaxial induction accelerator utilizing a unique multiturn armature is also included.