DC arc suppression in the improved multichamber structure

Zijian Li,Xin Zhou,Renbao Yan,Jufeng Wang,Zhimei Cui

doi:10.1063/1.5097633

Abstract

In order to apply the multichamber structure to DC lines, it’s necessary to know the principle of arc quenching and the arc development process in the multichamber structure. Through analyzing the quenching characteristics of DC arc and establishing the 2-D geometric model of multichamber structure based on the magnetohydrodynamics theory in COMSOL Multiphysics simulation platform, this paper reveals and explains the principle of arc quenching in the multichamber structure. The simulation result shows that the strong self-expanding airflow which caused by the instantaneous temperature rise in the chambers can cut off the arc channel and block the energy supply of the arc. Then the Impulse-DC arc quenching test is carried out to verify the arcing performance of the improved multichamber structure. The arc is finally extinguished at 1.5ms, which manifests that the improved device can effectively suppress DC arc development.

Highlights

With the favorable breakdown characteristics and arcquenching ability, the multichamber structure (MCS) has been used in circuit breakers and switches for many years.1 Recently, some research institutions around the world has applied MCS in the lightning protection of overhead lines.2,3 These MCS based lightning protection devices are generally installed parallelly beside the insulator or installed on the outside of the insulator in screw type
The MCS based devices have advantages like simple structure, low cost and a relatively long maintenance period,4–7 and they have already been utilized in Europe and Asia for many years
Research shows that there are two modes of arc quenching in MCS,12 one of which is called “Zero Quenching”, where the arc current stops flow at the zero-crossing point due to the superimposed near-cathode effect of the multiple chambers

Summary

INTRODUCTION

With the favorable breakdown characteristics and arcquenching ability, the multichamber structure (MCS) has been used in circuit breakers and switches for many years. Recently, some research institutions around the world has applied MCS in the lightning protection of overhead lines. These MCS based lightning protection devices are generally installed parallelly beside the insulator or installed on the outside of the insulator in screw type. The MCS based devices have advantages like simple structure, low cost and a relatively long maintenance period, and they have already been utilized in Europe and Asia for many years.. The MCS based devices have advantages like simple structure, low cost and a relatively long maintenance period, and they have already been utilized in Europe and Asia for many years.8 These devices are widely installed in ac lines, reports of their application in DC lines have still not been found. Compared with other lightning protection methods of DC lines, MCS based devices can extinguish the follow current actively and quickly with a lower residual voltage. Research shows that there are two modes of arc quenching in MCS, one of which is called “Zero Quenching”, where the arc current stops flow at the zero-crossing point due to the superimposed near-cathode effect of the multiple chambers. Tests are carried out to verify DC arc quenching performance of MCS

Analysis of DC arc quenching condition

Findings

CONCLUSION