Three-dimensional magnetic field analysis of electrodes for VCBs [vacuum circuit breakers]

This paper describes the application of three-dimensional magnetic field analysis, including eddy current effects on the axial magnetic field electrodes of vacuum circuit breakers. The accuracy of the analysis is verified with both basic and full models of the electrodes. The analytical results were compared with measured values obtained by a Hall sensor system. The effect of the electrode slit length and the electrical conductivity of the contact on the magnetic flux density and phase difference was analyzed with the full model. The magnetic field in the gap was simulated when the arc ignites between the electrodes. These results demonstrated that the magnetic design of the electrodes can be carried out on an engineering workstation.