Method and apparatus for extinguishing an arc through material surface ablation
US6594126B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 29, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 15, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H9/38
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A technique is provided for forcing greater voltage investment in an arc developed during interruption of a current carrying path. A source element is provided in a secondary current carrying path parallel to a primary path through the device. Upon interruption of the primary current carrying path, an arc is forced to migrate towards a dissipating structure under the influence of an electromagnetic field. The source material then begins to carry current and undergoes surface ablation, releasing gas which is directed towards the migrating arc. The arc is thus caused to expand further, increasing voltage investment and resulting in more rapid extinction and reduction in let-through energy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.