Arc Control in Circuit Breakers

The design of circuit breakers is mainly based on experience rather than precise science. Empirical formulae can be used to determine dimensions of certain general types and the breaking capacity rating. This work addresses problems and development of scientific as well as a practical nature. This book, by a woman who has contributed to the development of electrical arc control in circuit breakers, provides new insight into arc root motion in the contact region. It combines new results from pressure, spectral and optical data. This is the first time the influences of magnetics, gas dynamics, thermal energy, mass flow, gas composition, arc chamber venting, contact material, arc chamber material, short circuit current, polarity, contact opening velocity and the gap behind the moving contact on the arc control have been presented.The first two chapters give a general account of arc root motion. Chapter 3 to 5 are among the most valuable, describing experimental facilities, results from modelling and experiments. The last two chapters discuss the significance of the results and effects of the parameters. Engineers and professionals will profit immensely from this outstanding volume.