Tech Meeting: High Power Electromagnetic (HPEM) Threats and the Electric Power System

Posted on: October 20th, 2010

On October 20th, 2010, Elite hosted a technical meeting bringing together over 100 members of the Chicago chapter of the IEEE Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Society and the IEEE Fox Valley Section.  The keynote presentation was titled “HPEM Threats and the Electric Power System” .  The speaker was one of the recognized experts in the field of high powered electromagnetic pulse, Dr. William A. Radasky, Ph.D., IEEE Fellow, P.E.

Dr. Radasky's presentation addressed several aspects of the threat from high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP). HEMP occurs from nuclear detonation in the upper atmosphere and is potentially devastating to the commercial infrastructures of the United States. He also discussed the treats from severe geomagnetic storms occurring from solar events. These solar flares can significantly damage our power grid and lead to years of repair. 

As an added interest, Elite demonstrated its HEMP transient pulse generator. Attendees were provided access to Elite's laboratory to get a first-hand look at its 1.2m separation parallel plate transmission line capable of generating a 50,000V/m EMP. 

Oktoberfest Event

As with past IEEE October meetings, this event had an “Oktoberfest” theme and included a great dinner, refreshments, and music.  Though there were no reports of lively Polka dancing, the event turned out to be a fun night with a great technical presentation.

For more information on HPEM and EMP issues contact Dr. Radasky or his company Metatech, Inc.  Visit the Metatech website at:

http://www.metatechcorp.com/

Click below to download Dr. Radasky's technical presentation (13MB). 

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