Effect of Arc Armature Geometrical Parameters on Current Distribution at the Armature/Rail Contact Interface

Abstract

In this article, a parametric model of an arc armature with 12 parameters is established, the geometric meaning of these parameters is clarified, and the constraint relationship among parameters is analyzed. By setting a reference armature, the value ranges of nine parameters are given. Simulation models considering velocity skin effect and contact resistance are also established in this article using COMSOL. Through this model, the effects of each parameter on the current distribution at the armature/rail contact interface are investigated. By processing the results, the effects of different parameters on the current distribution at the armature/rail contact interface are compared. It is shown that the curvature of the arc surface, the reduced width and the length of the tailplane have the greatest influence on the current distribution at the armature/rail contact interface.