A method of simulating magnetically driven arcs [in switchgear]

Abstract

This paper presents a new, practical method of simulating the behavior of arcs driven by magnetic forces in a gas. This simulation method is very useful in designing electric devices using magnetically driven arc techniques. First, the authors describe the arc model. In this model, the arc is assumed to be a chain of small rigid cylindrical current elements. Each element receives Lorentz's force from the magnetic field and a fluid drag force from the surrounding gas. Owing to the similarity between an arc and a rigid column, the drag force of the arc is expressed by that of the column. The element moves with the velocity determined by these forces. Consequently, one can obtain the behavior and the shape of the whole arc. Finally, a simulation example is shown.