Current interruption using electromagnetically convolved electric arcs in gases

Measurements were described as current, voltage, and local dielectric strength for a current interrupter which utilized a novel form of electromagnetically convolved electric arc in air. Experiments have been performed with various interrupter structures and operational conditions. Precurrent zero-voltage extinction peaks and post-arc local breakdown voltages have been measured and are compared with values for nonconvoluted arcs in nitrogen and SF6. An empirical relationship between the extinction peak voltage and various design and operational parameters is presented. Signatures for the various interrupter structures under different operational conditions have been obtained by using a chromatic methodology and embodying the extinction peak and a local breakdown voltage.