Test results of a resistive SC-power switch of 40 MW switching power at a voltage of 47 kV

After a brief description of the function of an sc. resistive switch in an electrical network and of the basic design formula, results are presented of the switch test. Special developments are described which are necessary for successful switch operation. They include the control of the high power density in the switch conductor, the application of high voltage technique to the construction of all components, and triggering of switches with large conductor lengths. About 500 power switching operations were done. Some unexpected results on the stability of the conductor and the propagation velocity in a normal region are presented. The attempt is made to explain them.