Investigation of DC arc characteristics and key influencing factors in liquid nitrogen

Abstract

Abstract Superconducting DC power distribution systems, pivotal next-generation technology for decarbonizing aircraft transportation, face significant fault isolation challenges. Liquid nitrogen, serving as coolant and insulator for high-temperature superconducting devices, demonstrated substantial arcquenching capability. It may offer potential for robust fault-clearing solutions in superconducting networks. However, arcing in liquid nitrogen constitutes a complex multiphase phenomenon, involving simultaneous vapor-liquid-plasma coexistence. Fundamental understanding of both arc characteristics and their underlying combustion physics in liquid nitrogen remains limited. This study identifies key factors governing arc behavior in liquid nitrogen. A dedicated experimental platform acquiring synchronized electrical signals, high-speed imaging, and fluid pressure data was developed. A coupled gas-liquid evolution model was established to simulate associated fluid dynamics. Results demonstrated near-synchronization between arc voltage rise and pressure transients. Dynamic pressure changes and vapor layer development drive distinct arc voltage phases. Crucially, arc energy dominated phasetransition dynamics, while resultant vapor-liquid distribution modulated arc power dissipation through thermo-fluid interactions. This interdependence established a closed-loop coupling mechanism governing arc transient behavior.

Affiliated Institutions

• Xi'an Jiaotong University CN
• University West SE
• Hohai University CN
• Tianjin Research Institute of Electric Science (China) CN

Related Publications