Review of numerical simulation methods used in interrupting process of vacuum switch arc

The interruption of vacuum switches is a complex physical process and numerical simulation in close coordination with appropriate key experiments is a feasible way to study it in depth. Numerical simulation helps to explain the experimental results and predict the breaking performance of vacuum switches. Vacuum arc plasma is not in local thermal equilibrium, and magnetic fields and effects of contacts play key roles in the interrupting process, consequently, numerical simulation of the interruption process of vacuum switches is still immature in contrast to SF₆ switches. However, it has been developed rapidly in recent years as the vacuum arc theory consummates unceasingly. The application status of the magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) model, the particle in cell-Monte Carlo collisions (PIC-MCC) simulation, the fluid-particle hybrid model, the anode thermal model and the analytical model in the numerical simulation of the interruption process of vacuum switch arc are summarized in this paper. Furthermore, some problems needed to be further discussed or possible research directions have been put forward.