Electronic – Need advice regarding a regulated HV DC power supply for Magnetron

high voltagepower supply

I need a DC 4.2Kv 300ma power supply, and am looking for advice.

I'm currently using a the guts of a microwave oven (transformer/diode/capacitor) to power a magnetron for a physics experiment. The transformer outputs 2.1kv into a diode/capacitor voltage doubler to produces a 50% duty cycle 4.2KV potential at 60hz. The resulting signal from the magnetron is noisier than an LA freeway at rush hour.

According to this paper changing the unit to a regulated HV power supply, controlling the filament heater separately, and reducing the filament current after it reaches operating conditions should allow it to phase lock onto an external signal and operate as a low noise amplifier.

For the HV side, my first instinct was to buy a commercial supply. I priced them, and after regaining consciousness thought I should ask here.

Question: Is there a way to smooth out the power from my existing supply or another inexpensive alternative I should consider?

Thanks in advance.

(Amateur: yes. Kid/teenager: no. Experience in electronics: Kit-building. Follows safety procedures/common sense: yes…Safety advice is always appreciated.)

Added additional details on safety and end use to comments.

Best Answer

The simplest solution to this problem is to replace the existing "Villard Circuit" pulse-type voltage doubler with a voltage doubler circuit that outputs solid DC. This modification is significantly less expensive than a new power supply. It requires only two appropriately rated diodes and two capacitors.

Two safety related modifications are also suggested. First, a small bleeder resistor should be connected across each capacitor to drain away charge when the device is not in use. This will reduce (but not eliminate) the possibility of an accidental discharge.

Second, a fuse or circuit breaker should be installed if not already in place.

Finally, to round out the updated power supply, consider adding a cooling fan and voltage/current meters.

Special thanks to @kalleMp for inspiring this answer. I am in their debt.