volume | PIER Journals

Abstract

In the study of synchronous electromagnetic coil launchers, the influence of armature material on system performance is critical. Existing research lacks combined simulation-experimental investigations on the electrical conductivity of armature materials and in-depth exploration of its impact mechanism on propulsion performance. To analyze the influence of armature material conductivity on propulsion characteristics, a mathematical model of the synchronous electromagnetic coil launcher was established, with theoretical derivations clarifying the mechanical properties and motion equations of the armature during acceleration. Through systematic simulations conducted on the Ansys platform, the effects of different armature material conductivities (6061 aluminum alloy, 7075 aluminum alloy, brass) on propulsion effectiveness were quantified. An experimental platform was subsequently constructed to validate simulation reliability using these three engineering-grade materials. Results demonstrate that increased armature conductivity significantly reduces peak reverse force and enhances exit velocity, while revealing a saturation effect: when conductivity exceeds 6 × 10⁷ S/m, further improvements have diminishing returns on propulsion performance.

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Dr. Mingjie Zhong

Dr. Junsheng Cheng

Mr. Heyang Wang

Dr. Jian Sun