ABSTRACT

Optical Emission Spectroscopy and fast imaging were performed in a testing facility designed to measure electrical characteristics of vacuum contactors. The emission spectra are used to identify the dominant species in the discharge volume between electrodes, depending on the current regime. The fast imaging offers a global view on the temporal and spatial evolution of the arcs developing between the two electrodes. Moreover the mechanical movement of the mobile electrode is quantified and analysed, in relation with the electrical measurements.

Evaluation of Vacuum Contactor Testing Facility by Optical and Spectroscopic Investigations