Numerical Modeling of the Arc in Switching-Type SPD

Surge protection is very important for the safe operation of power system. The application of Surge Protective Device (SPD) is the one of key measures of surge protection. Due to its high surge absorption capability, switching-type SPD is widely used in various scenarios of power systems. The follow current in the switching-type SPD which will generate continuous arc is one of the main problems to this type of SPD. How to extinguish the follow current arc is the key problem of developing switching-type SPD. In this paper, a two-dimensional numerical model of follow current arc inside a switching-type SPD is established based on the magneto hydro dynamic (MHD) model. The simulation results show that the air flow and the configuration of splitter plates in the arc extinguish chamber greatly affect the extinguishment of the arc. The stronger air flow and the convex configuration of splitter plates make the arc extinguished more easily. The conclusion of this paper will be beneficial for the optimization of switching-type SPD design.