Investigations of Reed Switch Dynamics and Discharge Phenomena When Switching Intermediate and Heavy Loads

Studies of reed switch dynamics and discharge phenomena when switching intermediate and large inductive currents are reported. The initial interactions of the reed dynamics and the dynamics of the electrical discharge in the contact gap during both opening and closing have been investigated. The investigations have been carried out using both oscilloscope studies and high speed photography of both dry and mercury-wetted reeds. Conclusions about the applications of reed switches for intermediate and large inductive currents are formulated.