High-current arc discharge (HCAD) test system for aeronautic power

High-potential DC power distribution systems such as those found in aeronautics are at risk to failures different from AC and low-voltage DC systems. Detection and mitigation of such failures are important in aerospace and other technology fields. In collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory, APELC has developed a high-current arc-discharge (HCAD) system for test and research applications. The HCAD system is an instantly reconfigurable arc-discharge source capable of driving 60-Amps continuously or >1-kA in pulsed-discharge mode. The system can be configured for unipolar or bipolar power up to 600 VDC in both pulsed and continuous modes. The system employs 28 F of capacitance for pulsed discharge and uses high-current IGBTs to energize and de-energize the load. HCADS features internal current limiting resistors, a hand-held fiber optic remote, calibration fixture, and voltage and current diagnostics. This paper presents the design of the HCAD system.