Capacitor arc suppression coil explosion

Does a larger capacitor affect arc suppression?

But larger capacitor can be expensive and might cause higher capacitive discharge energy during the time the contacts of the switch close. This type applies to both DC and AC circuits. Ohm’s law is applied to choose the most appropriate resistor value for the arc suppression.

What is an electronic power contact arc suppressor?

An electronic power contact arc suppressor attached in parallel across the contact of a relay or contactor (Fig. 1 of issued patent U.S. 8,619,395 B2) The circuit diagram is part of an issued patent for an electronic power contact arc suppressor intended to protect the contacts of electrical relays or contactors.

What happens if a capacitor is connected across the relay contacts?

If only a capacitor is connected across the relay contacts, the setup is extremely efficient to reduce arcing. However, because of the huge electrical charge stored in the capacitor when the contacts are open, the current flows to the contacts again when they are closed. Over time, this will cause contact welding.

Can an arc-suppression reactor cause a fire?

It may even cause a fire. It is generally assumed that arcs extinguish by themselves when the arc current is below 5-10 A. The purpose of the arc-suppression reactor is to reduce the arc current and thus provide the condition for the arc to extinguish.

What happens if a capacitor contacts close?

When the contacts close, the inrush current from the charged capacitor and the supply voltage can be significantly higher than the ratings for the contacts thus causing them to worsen. To prevent this, a resistor is introduced in series with the capacitor.

What happens when a capacitor charges up faster than a contact?

During the process, the capacitor charges up faster than the contacts opening time which eventually avoids an arc from forming across the contacts. When the contacts close, the inrush current from the charged capacitor and the supply voltage can be significantly higher than the ratings for the contacts thus causing them to worsen.