Arc extinction device for high-current switch - uses a low-volume coil with ferro-magnetic core to create temporary extinction field

摘要

The arc suppressor can be used in switches handling over 2000 Amps at 150 volts. The volume of the electromagnetic coil and cost of manufacture are less than existing types. The coil is not permanently connected in the circuit. A fixed contact blade is connected to one end of a coil (1) wound on a ferro magnetic core (10) and housed inside a compartment (c) with insulating walls. The moving contact (4) generates an arc (6) which is curved in the forward direction when it separates from the fixed contact. A conducting pad (4) is fixed to the wall (7) of the arc chamber and is connected internally to the other end of the coil. When the arc begins to strike, it is attracted towards the conducting pad which results in a coil current and consequently an axial magnetic field. The magnetic field defects and stretches the arc to one side towards metal plates (9) located at the side of the chamber cutting the arc in the process.