Arc-Interruption and Gas-Evolution Characteristics of Common Polymeric Materials

An extensive study was undertaken to determine the arc-interruption and gas-evolution characteristics of a number of common polymeric materials. The materials were evaluated to determine their potential use in electrical apparatus. The test results show the composition and distribution of arc-quenching gases produced during interruptions and the importance of volume cooling with gas on energy dissipation. A scheme is proposed for the arc-induced decomposition of a polymer and the predominant chemical reactions that account for the formation of the gas species observed is theoretically discussed.