Transient analysis of Cockcroft-Walton cascade rectifier circuit after load short-circuit

Abstract On the basis of simulation results, analytical solutions of the transients in the main and branch discharging routes in a Cockcroft-Walton cascade rectifier circuit, in responce to a load short-circuit discharge, are derived. Using these analytical expressions, transient currents, energy dissipation in the circuit elements and the effects of circuit parameters on transients are investigated quantitatively for the first time. Results show that the diodes at the uppermost and lowest ends suffer stronger surges; inserting resistors and inductors into the circuit can weaken the undesirable effects of a surge on circuit elements.