Switching Behavior of a Gas-Filled Model DC-Contactor Under Different Conditions

The switching behavior of gas-filled contactors was investigated using a model switch. High-speed imaging and spectroscopy provided information regarding the characteristics of the arc plasma. The impact of external magnetic fields, fill gas, fill pressure, and current amplitude was investigated. The most important factor, influencing the switching behavior for currents below 100 A, is provided by external magnetic fields, which increase arc voltage and arc instability considerably. The observed changes of the side-on profiles of the characteristic emission lines indicate changes in particle densities and arc temperature.