On analysis of physical processes on the electrode surface in a rail launcher

This paper analyzes some physical effects that occur on the electrode surface in plasma-armature rail launchers when the linear current density is higher than critical value. It is shown that under typical experimental conditions, Rayleigh–Taylor and Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities and magnetohydrodynamic instabilities, which arise from the interaction of the current with the self-magnetic field, can develop over times much smaller than the launcher operation time and can be responsible for the entry of the electrode material into the discharge. Flash radiography of the electrode surface confirmed the presence of inhomogeneities and ejection of the material from the surface. Under certain conditions, the emergence of conducting metal jets from the electrode surface was detected.