Synthetic Methods for Testing of Vacuum Breakers

Different synthetic methods are scrutinized as to the applicability to vacuum breakers. Skeats method with resistor is brought forward and discussed from the viewpoint of breaker failure modes, interruption and circuit phenomena. Criteria for choice of resistor are given. Comparison tests using this method and direct method were performed. The results support theoretical conclusions by experimental verification of equivalency for the tested vacuum breaker. The method offers practical and economical advantages over current injection and is also suitable for multiloop and duty cycle testing.