Mathematical modeling of SF/sub 6/ puffer circuit breakers. I. High current region

A mathematical arc model based on the integral method has been developed to study the arc behavior of SF/sub 6/ puffer circuit breakers the during high current region. The interaction between the compression chamber and the arc interrupter plays a critical role in determining the arc behavior. Computations have been carried out for the puffer circuit breaker of Noeske et al. (1983). The aerodynamic behavior and electrical characteristics of the puffer circuit breaker have been investigated. In addition, the pressure rise in the compression chamber and arc voltage have been computed and the results compared with the available experimental results of Noeske et al. Special attention has been paid to the presence of the shock.