Upon the influence of the post-arc current on the low voltage switching process in vacuum

The paper presents one stage of the scientific research, performed for the investigation of the post-arc (p.a.) current within low voltage switching process in vacuum, when interrupting short-circuit currents of high values. A large power equipment, supplied by the mains and providing an accurate reproduction of the processes, concerning the short circuit phenomenon (U=1.5 kV; I=100 kA) was used. An experimental model, which can reproduce the switching conditions of the power circuit-breaker in vacuum, was available as well. The influence of an axial magnetic field on the p.a. current and the switching process was also explored.