An Indicator Reduction Method for Contactor’s Performance Evaluation

Abstract

There are some disadvantages which are numerous and varied indicators, and thus high equipment costs in existing AC contactors’ closing dynamic performance evaluation. Based on gray correlation & cluster theory, this paper proposed a new method to reduce the number of indicators for contactor’s performance evaluation. It took one existing indicator set proposed by Hebei University of Technology for example. Firstly, the existing 21 indicators are clustered to three types: important, complementary and dispensable. Secondly, nine different and typical indicator sets including the these types are proposed. Nine samples’ closing performance are evaluated respectively by gray clustering & correlation theory. The better indicator set is ascertained by aiming at the same performance classification and ranking. Finally, the identified set is verified with the combined method based on gray correlation and technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution(TOPSIS) theories, and the method of indicator reduction is proved to be feasible and the number of the original indicator is reduced from 21 to 13. It will be helpful for indicator reducing, cost saving and shortening the evaluation process. Moreover, it will provide theoretical basis for dynamic process control and choosing best phase angles in life test for intelligent contactors, and it will provide references for choosing appropriate indicators for other similar electrical products’ evaluation.