A Numerical Model for Current-Zero Arc Interruption Processes

Consideration is given to the various energy transfer processes that dominate the interruption at current-zero of an arc in a gas blast breaker. Processes considered in some detail are Ohmic heating, radial thermal conduction, radial thermal convection, radiation transport, and viscous heating. A numerical model is developed based on the time-dependent energy equation describing these processes. A discussion of initial conditions for such a model is given ancj preliminary results are presented.