The Electromagnetic Systems (EMS) Group of General Atomics is a supplier of advanced electromagnetic systems and related power equipment for a variety of defense, energy, and commercial transportation applications. EMS has leading-edge expertise in the design and fabrication of linear motors, superconducting and conventional rotating motors, power inverters, high-voltage DC power distribution systems, and numerous other energy conversion, distribution, and storage systems. EMS is a world leader in applying electromagnetic technologies to aircraft launch and recovery, projectile launch, and magnetic levitation ("maglev") systems.
Defense Systems
EMS advanced aircraft launch and recovery systems will increase the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations carried out on board the nation’s next generation of aircraft carriers. The Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) will use electromagnetic power to launch aircraft from the decks of aircraft carriers, replacing the steam-driven catapults that have been used since the mid-20th Century. The Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) system will use advanced energy storage devices to decelerate planes when they land on aircraft carriers. These innovations will improve the efficiency of naval aircraft operations while extending the operating life of naval aircraft.
EMS naval propulsion systems offer the potential for unprecedented improvements in marine propulsion efficiency. EMS’ superconducting homopolar motor will greatly reduce the size and weight of electric motors capable of propelling large surface ships. The DDG 51 hybrid drive system will utilize a combination of electric motors and advanced energy storage technologies to provide efficient, clean main propulsion for surface ships. EMS is also developing integrated electric drive systems for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs).
EMS weapons and support systems will modernize the way electrical power is generated and utilized on board 21st Century marine vessels. EMS electromagnetic rail guns will launch projectiles from surface ships at a fraction of the cost of conventional ordnance. EMS weapons elevators will achieve significant performance improvements using electromagnetic technologies. EMS advanced high-voltage power conversion and distribution systems will deliver electrical power for these and other shipboard systems with improved efficiency and survivability. EMS maglev technologies are also being used for high-speed testing of weapon systems.
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Energy Systems
EMS provides advanced power conversion technologies and products for use in large wind turbines, helping to increase use of renewable wind energy. EMS generators and power inverters capture the rotational energy of wind turbines and convert this into high-voltage AC power that can be transmitted efficiently by utilities to their electric power customers. The high efficiency of these EMS power conversion devices will help make wind power more economically competitive with other types of electric power generation.
EMS power inverters are also compatible with advanced renewable power plants using solar, ocean, and geothermal power.
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