Modeling the contact resistance of different Architectures

Abstract

The performance of electrical contacts, which are inevitable in the electricity distribution system will affects the power quality, reliability and hence the level of customer satisfaction. Making a successful contact depends on the design of a contact and proper workmanship. Thus, the knowhow on the behavior of a contact plays a major role in every aspect of making a successful electrical contact. The research undertaken was to study the behavior of electrical contacts having basic architectures and to develop a model to represent the resistance of contacts during loading. Basic architectures of current contacts were identified and resistance between two contacts members were measured against the load applied to it. A special testing apparatus was designed and fabricated for the study. This consists of a Compression Test Cell, Load Cell and a micro ohm meter. A Thermal imaging camera was used for observing Temperature Profiles. Rod tip architecture was initially examined under three basic tip angles 300, 600and 900. Then parallel rod architectures were examined for the study and developed model for the resistance. An empirical model for the resistance for the parallel rod was developed and that was theoretically extended for the stranded wire. The research outcomes of the study suggest modern improvements in contact designs and potential workmanship practices in making successful contacts.