Simple Analysis Method for the Interrupting Capability of a Contact System in a Molded Case Circuit Breaker

Abstract

This paper focuses on understanding the interrupting capability of an arc contact system in a molded case circuit breaker (hereafter MCCB). We selected four types of MCCBs and analyzed the magnetic flux density distributions in the contact systems caused by the fault currents. We ascertained that the magnetic flux density profile varies according to the shape of the contact system and was asymmetric at both the ends of an arc, perpendicular to the arc column because of the magnetic grid installed in the contact system. The asymmetric difference creates a magnetic force that pushes the arc current outwards and provides an interrupting capability. We have introduced a simple analysis method for determining the interrupting capability of the contact system for an MCCB by the arc-driving magnetic flux density.