Detonation

Precision Energy for Mission-Critical Initiation

The Knowles Advantage

Knowles provides high-voltage ceramic capacitors engineered for pulse discharge applications that meet MIL-PRF standards and are optimized for energy density, low ESR, and rapid rise times. Our capacitors enable capacitor discharge units (CDUs) and firesets to deliver precise, repeatable pulses for safe-and-arm devices in missiles, munitions, and aerospace systems. With proven reliability up to 250°C and advanced dielectric formulations, Knowles ensures mission success when timing and safety are paramount.

Knowles’ components can be found in the following applications:

Exploding Foil Initiators (EFI): High voltage initiation systems with precise, EMI-resistant actuation.
Exploding Bridgewire Detonators (EBW): Reliable, ultra-fast detonators for extreme thermal, shock, and vibration conditions.
Flight Termination & Range Safety Systems: Instant pyrotechnic systems for range safety.
Insensitive Munitions & Safe and Arm Devices: IM-compliant initiation with advanced safety controls.

Precision Power for Mission-Critical Detonation Systems

Built for Extremes. Designed for Accuracy.

Knowles delivers aerospace grade, high energy pulse capacitors engineered for precise, safe, and reliable detonation performance—offering exceptional energy density, low ESR, rigorous high reliability screening, and robust operation from extreme heat to cold temperature ignition scenarios.

High-Energy Pulse Capacitors: Reliable single- or multi-pulse firing up to 250°C.
Aerospace-Grade Ceramic Capacitors: MIL-SPEC screened components for detonation systems.
Compact, Low-Inductance Designs: High energy density with fast, precise discharge.
High-Reliability Components: Pulse screening and optional integral bleed resistors for added safety.
Built for Harsh Conditions: Low ESR and minimal signal distortion deliver consistent energy even in extreme cold.

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How Do You Make a Pulse in an RLC Circuit?

One of the fundamental roles of capacitors is charging and discharging energy predictably. Many electronics applications leverage capacitors to store energy and release it in a controlled pulse of current or voltage.

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How Pulse Forming Networks Shape High Energy Pulses

From high-power radar to advanced medical imaging, many cutting-edge technologies rely on precisely controlled high-energy pulses. However, generating a pulse that delivers consistent power without distortion isn’t as simple as discharging a capacitor. These systems rely on Pulse Forming Networks (PFNs) to shape and control high-energy pulses.

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Specifying Capacitors for High-Energy Pulse Applications

Energy storage capacitor banks supply pulsed power in all manner of high-current applications, including shockless compression and fusion.

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Generating High Voltage Pulses with Marx Generators

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.

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Knowles Achieves a Benchmark for Excellence: MIL-PRF-55681-Qualified Capacitors for Mission-Critical Defense Applications

When it comes to aerospace and defense applications, every single component plays a role in the success and longevity of the system. Capacitors are vital in flight control systems, radar systems, signal intelligence equipment and more.

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