Spectroscopic analysis for the arc quenching effect of ablation gas on arc immobility phenomena

Arc immobility phenomena at contact openings are investigated. Effects of contact opening velocity, magnetic field, and contact material on arcs immobility time are examined. Particle compositions of arcs contaminated by metal vapor and ablation gas from polymeric insulating materials are calculated, and a spectroscopic analysis of the arc is presented. Arc immobility phenomenon are related to the amount of metal vapor in the arc. The arc ignited by evaporation of a metal bridge is so metallic at initial stages that the arc temperature is low and the arc radius is long. Arc temperature increases by the admixture of surrounding gas into an arc column and arc shrinkage occurs. Consequently, the arc is easily driven. The arc quenching effect of ablation gas from insulating materials is also investigated.<>