Arc extinction refers to the process of stopping or extinguishing an electric arc that forms between two conductive surfaces in high-voltage systems. When a voltage is applied across a gap, an electric arc is initiated, resulting in the flow of current through the gap.
There are two methods of extinguishing the arc in circuit breakers Low resistance or current zero method. Application of these two methods are given in the table below. 1. 2. Application of different methods of arc extinction in circuit breaker
One way to extinguish the arc is to separate the contacts to such a distance that p.d. becomes inadequate to maintain the arc. However, this method is impracticable in high voltage system where a separation of many meters may be required. The ionised particles between the contacts tend to maintain the arc.
What is arc suppression?
Arc suppression is the reduction of the electric arc energy that occurs when current-carrying contacts are opened and closed. An electric arc is a man-made, continuous arc-discharge consisting of highly energized electrons and ions supported by an electric current of at least 100mA; not to be confused with an electric spark.
Application of different methods of arc extinction in circuit breaker In this method, arc resistance is made to increase with time so that current is reduced to a value insufficient to maintain the arc. Consequently, the current is interrupted or the arc is extinguished.
What is an electronic power contact arc suppressor?
An electronic power contact arc suppressor attached in parallel across the contact of a relay or contactor (Fig. 1 of issued patent U.S. 8,619,395 B2) The circuit diagram is part of an issued patent for an electronic power contact arc suppressor intended to protect the contacts of electrical relays or contactors.
How do ionised particles maintain the arc in a circuit breaker?
The ionised particles between the contacts tend to maintain the arc. If the arc path is deionised, the arc extinction will be facilitated. This may be achieved by cooling the arc or by bodily removing the ionised particles from the space between the contacts. There are two methods of extinguishing the arc in circuit breakers