Study on Temperature Characteristics of DC Pantograph Arc

In the pantograph-catenary system, the frequent occurrence of pantograph arc can alter the temperature distribution on the pantograph slide surface, directly affecting its service life. In this study, high-speed camera was used to capture images of pantograph arc, and the temperature characteristics of the DC arc were studied using the tri-colorimetric temperature measurement method. Different contact pressures and sliding speeds were considered. The arc images were captured, and the temperature characteristics were measured under varying conditions. The influence of contact pressures, sliding speeds, and pantograph slide materials on the temperature of the DC arc was investigated. The results indicate that the arc area increases with the rise of temperature after ignition; when the arc area reaches its maximum, the arc temperature gradually decreases and extinguishes at 3000K. The temperature of the pantograph arc in the pantograph ranges from 3000K to 8000K. Compared to contact pressure and sliding speed, the contact current has a more pronounced influence on the arc temperature. Studying the temperature characteristics of pantograph arc provides essential reference data for optimizing the pantograph system, improving its performance, and extending its service life.