Arc to Glow Transition for Using DC Low Power Switches in Low Voltage Electric Grids

This paper presents and discusses results of analysis and investigations of arc to glow transformation phenomenon at contact opening, under DC inductive loads of low power (≤10 J) and low voltage (≤250 V). The proportion in duration of arcing and glowing is investigated in dependence on current and voltage value, contact material properties. The transition phenomenon is analyzed by means of fast photography and emission spectroscopy to complete the study. On the basis of investigated results the conclusions about the possibility of control of the arc to glow transformation for practical use in DC low voltage and low power electrical grids are formulated.