Electricity: electrical systems and devices – Safety and protection of systems and devices
Patent
1985-04-29
1987-08-04
Pellinen, A. D.
Electricity: electrical systems and devices
Safety and protection of systems and devices
361 8, 200144R, 200144AP, H02H 3033
Patent
active
046850198
ABSTRACT:
Most contacts that are used in electrical switchgear are prone to erosion due to electrical arcs that are developed at the make and break of a circuit. Arcing is one of the major problems that can cause catastrophic failure of switchgear. In accordance with the invention, a discreet, controlled semiconductor switching assembly is provided within the conventional contact structure to reduce arcing. The semiconductor switching assembly includes a voltage-controlled gate that permits current flow through the contact only when desired. Current is allowed to flow only when the contact gap has been completely closed and is prevented from flowing immediately before the contacts are opened. Thus, there is very little current available to form an arc plasma, and, therefore, erosion of the contact surface is minimal, being mostly the product of mechanical wear.
REFERENCES:
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patent: 3491284 (1970-01-01), Pascente
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patent: 3784886 (1974-01-01), Miyata et al.
patent: 4438472 (1984-03-01), Woodwarth
patent: 4525762 (1985-06-01), Norris
Engelhard Corporation
Pellinen A. D.
Wysocki Anthony J.
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