Title :
Advances in material development for high power, vacuum interrupter contacts
Author_Institution :
Eaton Cutler-Hammer Corp., Horseheads, NY, USA
fDate :
3/1/1994 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
This paper reviews the development of contact materials for vacuum interrupters. During the past 15 years, chromium-copper (Cr-Cu) has gradually become the dominant contact material for use in medium-voltage, high-current vacuum interrupters. The manufacturing methods for this material are discussed. Other materials such a tungsten-copper (W-Cu), tungsten carbide-silver (WC-Ag), and copper alloys are briefly described. The performance of the vacuum interrupter contacts under operating conditions is reviewed. This review shows that Cr-Cu continues to be the best contact material for vacuum interrupters used in vacuum circuit breakers
Keywords :
chromium; circuit breakers; copper; electrical contacts; powder metallurgy; vacuum insulation; Cr-Cu contact materials; CrCu; manufacturing methods; operating conditions; vacuum circuit breakers; vacuum interrupter contacts; Bellows; Circuit breakers; Contacts; Dielectrics and electrical insulation; Interrupters; Medium voltage; Seals; Sulfur hexafluoride; Surface contamination; Surface resistance;
Journal_Title :
Components, Packaging, and Manufacturing Technology, Part A, IEEE Transactions on
