Review of theoretical research in vacuum arc and their applications in China

A brief introduction of theoretical research in a vacuum arc and the development of vacuum interrupters and vacuum switchgear are described in this paper. The contents of theoretical research in vacuum arc include: characteristics curves between axial magnetic field and vacuum arc voltage; the internal distribution of electric field in high voltage vacuum interrupter; research in vacuum contact materials; measurement and analysis of post arc current after interruption in vacuum; research in the process of dielectric recovery after vacuum arc interruption; research in vacuum arc with spectrometric diagnosis; theoretical analysis of anode spot formation; theoretical analysis of electric field distribution in inner part of vacuum interrupter; and measurement and analysis of switching overvoltage in vacuum switchgear and vacuum arc deposition, etc. The contents of development and production of vacuum interrupters and vacuum switchgears include: the development of 63 kV and 110 kV high voltage vacuum interrupters and circuit breakers for distribution power system; the development of vacuum circuit breaker for generator with high rated current and high interrupting capacity; and research in a vacuum disconnector and compactness of vacuum interrupter, etc