Hybrid NLC Modulator--Diversified Technologies, Inc., 35 Wiggins Avenue, Bedford, MA 01730-2314; 781-275-9444
Dr. Jeffrey Casey, Principal Investigator
Mr. Michael A. Kempkes, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-99ER82776
Amount: $749,691

The Next Generation Linear Collider (NLC) will require 1600 klystron modulators capable of providing 500 kV, 530 A pulses at 120 Hz, representing one of the largest NLC cost factors. Modulators with the lowest possible life cycle cost are needed for this program to proceed in a cost-effective, realizable manner. This project will utilize high voltage, solid state technology to design and build hybrid modulators (solid state switch/pulse transformer) with significantly improved efficiency, reliability, and life cycle compared to conventional modulators. In Phase I, the hybrid NLC modulator was designed, and the key technological capabilities necessary to build it were demonstrated. The cost, reliability, and efficiency were assessed and compared to other NLC modulator architectures. This design was optimized for low life cycle cost. Phase II will build a full specification prototype for the hybrid modulator, incorporating low cost manufacturing techniques and advanced state switch and transformer designs for high efficiency. After construction and evaluation, the prototype will be provided to the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center for assessment.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The hybrid modulator should be significantly less expensive to build and operate than conventional modulators and should have nearly an order of magnitude higher reliability. Reliable, low cost pulsed power should be applicable to many commercial processes, including semiconductor fabrication, metal surface treatments, medical diagnostic and treatment systems, and food sterilization.