A Study of Transient Processes in a High-Current Vacuum-Arc Anode Spot Using High-Speed Spectroscopy and Videorecording

The processes of plasma formation in the anode region of a high-current vacuum arc discharge are of high importance in terms of improving the switching characteristics of vacuum circuit breakers. In this paper the radiation spectrum dynamics in the anode region is recorded with a system allowing for time scanning of the spectrum. Concurrently, high-speed videorecording of the process is performed. The data obtained clearly demonstrate the changes in the charge composition of the anode spot plasma upon changing the discharge mode.