Pulsed energy drives a wide range of high-energy applications, from particle acceleration to fusion research and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) simulation. Marx generators play a critical role in generating those high-voltage pulses by amplifying lower voltage DC inputs. Here, we’ll cover how Marx generators operate, recent advancements enhancing their efficiency and reliability and the critical role of capacitors in shaping their performance. 

Capacitors are essential passive components for designing any electrical circuit. But there are so many options to choose from with a wide range of specifications that it can be overwhelming to determine what capacitor may be the best fit for your application. One early decision that circuit designers must make is to determine if a single-layer capacitor (SLC) or multi-layer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) is the right fit for their application needs. 

To protect electrical grids from overloads and faults, utility companies can incorporate reclosers. When a fault occurs, this high-voltage circuit breaker automatically closes to isolate the faulty sections of the grid, allowing other areas of the grid to continue to operate safely. The recloser can then automatically test the electrical lines to determine if the issue has been resolved and reset itself, restoring power more quickly once a fault is cleared. Reclosers are also designed to perform remote switching, enabling utilities to manage their networks more efficiently.

At Knowles Precision Devices, we have more than 40 years of experience developing high-performance, high-reliability components for military applications. Our US-based manufacturing facilities adhere to the highest military-grade quality and reliability standards so our components can be used in sophisticated, secure military and aerospace systems.

This past year, Knowles took bold strides in our journey to become an industrial technology company dedicated to providing customers with the high-performance parts required for their most demanding applications.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool for generating detailed images of the body using advanced physics and engineering. Here, we’ll cover the interplay between the two fields and the RF innovations driving MRI advancements. 

Energy storage capacitor banks supply pulsed power in all manner of high-current applications, including shockless compression and fusion. As the technology behind capacitor banks advances with more precise switching and higher energy density, fast discharge capacitors can reliably support more advanced applications.  

With more and more mission-critical systems relying on electrical power, consistent and reliable backup power is essential to ensure uninterrupted operation. Facilities like data centers and hospitals leverage backup power to manage the short, but potentially catastrophic, delay between grid power failure and the start of long-term back up (e.g., local generation via diesel generators).  

Standards are a form of technical infrastructure, and their influence is felt throughout the electronics industry. For example, formed in 1924, the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) was an American standards organization that established an alliance of trade associations in the United States electronics manufacturing industry. Their collaboration ensured that electronic equipment produced by different manufacturers was compatible and interchangeable. The EIA formally dissolved in February 2011, dividing by sector.

In 2024, our experts were dedicated to breaking down engineering fundamentals and exploring the latest industry trends and challenges. We hope you’ve found our insights and guidance helpful throughout the year, and we’re grateful for your continued trust and readership. 

As we look back on the past year, we’re excited to highlight five of our most popular blog posts, just in case you missed them.