Experimental DC arc endurance test of selected materials commonly used in switching devices

Choice of materials is one of the most important steps during the development and design of electrical switching devices. Sufficient electrical and thermal conductivity, mechanical strength and environmental stability are the most important material properties for current conducting path. Contact area is the most critical part of the entire current-path. Nowadays, DC switching devices are more and more discussed topics in solar power plants installations. This paper is focused on the experimental endurance test against DC arc of materials commonly used in switching devices. The paper contains practical mass loss measurement of selected materials under DC arc effects.