Observation of current distribution in arc chutes with a Hall probe matrix

The development of the arc chamber of an electrical breaker requires a detailed knowledge about the current distribution inside the breaker under switching operation. Two different approaches for observing the current distribution by measuring the magnetic flux density outside the arc chamber are presented. Calculations based on Biot-Savart's law for a moving current region lead to a method for experimental results analysis. With this method, the position of an arc current center can be observed inside the sensor region. Extended investigations for arc chambers with a complex 3D geometry and nonlinear ferromagnetic material indicate that similar methods may be found to identify the current flow region inside the arc chamber by means of a proper Hall probe measurement.