Design and Optimization of Helmholtz Coils For Magnetic Fields

Abstract

The objective of this work is to investigate the axial magnetic fields and radial magnetic fields of Helmholtz coils under copper chromium electrodes by using a pulse current generator. The vacuum circuit breaker electrode is the heart of its longevity. Based on the simulation results, COMSOL software was used to model the Helmholtz coils. It observed that the coils generate strong magnetic fields between copper and chromium electrodes. The novel Helmholtz coils have been tested through high voltage switching capacitor banks up to 2 kV. In the experiments, a pulse capacitor bank was used to generate arc voltage up to 50 kV. Furthermore, the generated arc voltage using Helmholtz coils was capable to propagate magnetic fields up to 55 mT. The Helmholtz coils influence on the arcs while producing magnetic fields were observed by a high-speed camera. Two types of magnetic fields were measured at different points using a Hall effect sensor. By using this switching technique, the Helmholtz coils increased the breaking capacity of the vacuum circuit breaker at high-speed velocities.