The Effect of Contact Structure on Electromagnetic Force

In order to improve the performance of vacuum interrupter, two types of radial magnetic field (RMF) contact structure were designed for electromagnetic force research. Electromagnetic force of arc and electric repulsion of move contact was simulated analysis by Ansys software at 25 kA. The electric repulsion of move contact can be decreased to 4% by improving contact structure at short time withstand current. It can improve the performance of short time withstand current (STC), peak withstand current and earthing switch making. The electromagnetic force direction of arc can be improved by improving contact structure. It can avoid arc erosion in a small area of contact and increase electric endurance performance. The electromagnetic force of arc can be increased by contact 15° dislocation assemble. It can increase the electric endurance performance of contact. The electric repulsion of move contact is about 190 N at 0.5 mm contact gap with arc for both contact structures.