The use of the quadrant electrometer as a ballistic energy meter

Abstract

This paper describes how the quadrant electrometer may be employed as a ballistic energy meter. The theory of the method is given by which its performance as a ballistic instrument may be predetermined from a knowledge of its periodic time and sensitivity as a voltmeter. Test results are given showing that results calculated from the theory are in excellent agreement with experiments. The quadrant electrometer used in this way may be employed for recording the energy released during very short time intervals, such as when a fusible cut-out or circuit breaker operates under short circuit conditions. The method given is applicable to either A.C. or D.C. circuits, and has given satisfactory results in the Test House of the Electrical Research Association where it has been in use during the last three years.