Solid armature performance: a progress review 1980-1990

We review the research on solid armatures that was reported in the period between 1980 and 1990. The topical areas that are emphasized are those that deal with interface theories and with armature architectures. We find interest in the development of a theory that explains the effect of melting of the armature contact on solid armature transitioning. Many theories have been proposed. The theories are limited in their usefulness because they do not account for important transient three-dimensional effects. Several armature architectures have been developed and tested. They have captured the essential features necessary to handle the mechanical and electrical loads, Among the mechanical loading considerations are contact force, compliance, friction and wear, and rail damage. Electrical factors include current distribution, velocity effects, launch duration, and thermal effects.