Contribution of the numerical simulation tools in the high voltage circuit-breaker conception

The development of modern simulation tools in all the physics and the important increase of the computer capabilities allow engineers to use numerical simulation tools for high voltage circuit-breaker developments. First dimensioning and optimization are possible and lead to a reduction of the tests. With appropriate hypothesis, today commercial softwares are perfectly relevant, typically for the dielectric, thermal and mechanical calculations. The electromagnetic, fluid and breaking process simulations are more complex since precise phenomena have to be considered and can be partially defined. Particular criteria can be used to predict the success or failure of the real test. To be more and more fitted to tests, these tools are still being developed and particular validation steps are required. The paper presents some details about these tools and their applications.