Magnetically Controlled Arcs for Power Collection

The magnetically controlled arc was investigated as a contactless method of power collection at high speeds (300-500 km/h) where the conventional method of sliding contact runs into serious difficulties, particularly with overhead systems. This investigation shows that an approximate control of arc movement in terms of speed, direction, and effective trapping, can be achieved magnetically. However, precise magnetic control of the arc speed is extremely difficult, even in uniform and carefully regulated magnetic fields, and additional means of arc control would be necessary for reliable power collection by arc.