Investigation of the time process of arc separation of the contact network positioner support structures

Abstract

The contact network is important for the traction power supply system to supply power to electric locomotives. It is significant to ensure that the contact network works properly. Whether the locator is intact directly affects the operation of the contact network. The traction power supply system has dynamic load vibration and wind dance vibration during operation. The contact network positioner and the wrist arm support structure appear to be separated, and there is a potential difference between the positioner and the support structure, which generates an electric arc and ablates the positioner and the wrist arm support structure device. Therefore, this paper selects the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) mathematical model with reference to the arcing model modelling method. COMSOL Multiphysics software is used to simulate the arc transient process of the contact network locator support structure separation, analyse the electric field between the locator articulated parts, give the temperature distribution of the locator and the articulated parts, and analyse the influencing factors of the temperature distribution between the locator and the articulated parts. This provides guiding suggestions for the design of contact networks and the selection of positioners in engineering.