Magnetic Method to Characterize the Current Densities in a Breaker Arc

Published

April 1, 2005

Author(s)

Nadia Machkour-Deshayes

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to use magnetic induction measurements from a low voltage electric arc, to reconstruct the arc''s current density. The measurements were made using Hall effect sensors, which were placed close to, but outside the breaking device. The arc was modelled as a rectangular current sheet, composed of a mix of threadlike current segments and with a current density varying across the propagation direction. We found the magnetic induction of the arc is a convolution product of the current density, and a function depending on the breaker geometry and arc model. Using deconvolution methods, the current density in the electric arc was determined. The method is used to study the arc behavior into the breaker device. Notably, position, arc size, arc velocity, and electric conductivity could all be determined. From the calculated current density and arc size, we could also characterize the arc mode, diffuse or concentrated, and study the condition of its mode changing. We also apply the method to study the arc behavior as function of the value of the arc-breaking current.

Volume

47 (3)

Conference Dates

September 14-16, 2004

Conference Location

Madison, WI

Conference Title

16th ANS Topical Meeting on the Technology of Fusion Energy

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

arc hynamic, arc mode, Biot-Savart's law, current density, deconvolution method, electyric conductivity, low voltage breaker arc, magnetic diagnostic

Citation

Machkour-Deshayes, N. (2005), Magnetic Method to Characterize the Current Densities in a Breaker Arc, 16th ANS Topical Meeting on the Technology of Fusion Energy, Madison, WI, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=822215 (Accessed May 26, 2026)

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