Arcing contacts of a circuit breaker is made by using __________.a)cop...
In a circuit breaker, the main contacts are usually made up of copper and conduct current in closed positions. Circuit breakers have low contact resistance and they are silver plated. The arcing contacts are solid, resistant to heat and are made up of copper tungsten alloy.
Important Points
Contact resistance is the resistance to current flow, due to surface conditions and other causes, when contacts are touching one another (in the closed condition of the device). This can occur between contacts of breakers.
The contact resistance is in the order of μΩ and it is approximately 20 μΩ.
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Arcing contacts of a circuit breaker is made by using __________.a)cop...
Importance of Arcing Contacts
Arcing contacts in circuit breakers are crucial for interrupting electrical circuits safely. When a fault occurs, they handle the high-energy arcs produced during the interruption process.
Material Selection: Copper Tungsten Alloy
The correct answer is option 'A' because:
- High Melting Point: Copper tungsten alloys have a high melting point, making them suitable for high-temperature environments created during arcing.
- Excellent Conductivity: Copper provides excellent electrical conductivity, ensuring efficient operation during normal circuit conditions.
- Wear Resistance: Tungsten enhances wear resistance, prolonging the life of arcing contacts by minimizing erosion from repeated arcing events.
Comparison with Other Materials
- Aluminium Alloy: While lightweight, aluminium has lower melting points and conductivity, making it less suitable for high-stress arcing applications.
- Porcelain: Primarily used as an insulator rather than a contact material, porcelain does not have the conductivity required for effective arcing.
- Electrolytic Copper: Though it has good conductivity, it lacks the high-temperature resistance needed for effective arcing performance.
Conclusion
Using copper tungsten alloy for arcing contacts enhances the reliability and longevity of circuit breakers, ensuring safe operation in various electrical applications. The combination of high melting point, superior conductivity, and wear resistance makes it the preferred choice.