Controlled power transfer with metal-plasma arc switching devices

Conference · Sun Aug 01 00:00:00 EDT 1982 · Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5349875

Dollinger, R E; Dettman, D

Four new Metal Plasma Arc Switches (MPAS) for high energy power applications are discussed. These MPAS are new and unusual types of arcs in that they generate high voltages (tens of kilovolts) which are capable of switching and controlling thousands of amps in electrical circuits. This is accomplished by applying magnetic fields and by using unique geometries that are extremely small in size for the large powers handled (tens of megawatts). One type of MPAS is currently being tested as a metallic return transfer breaker for the direct-current 400,000 volt power transmission line between Oregon and southern California.

• Research Organization: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering State, University of New York at Buffalo (SUNY/AB), Amherst, New York
• OSTI ID: 5349875
• Report Number(s): CONF-820814-
• Journal Information: Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States), Journal Name: Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States) Vol. 1; ISSN PIECD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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