Comparative analysis of electric arc by simulation tests and practical measurements of a simple relay

The electric arc is a very complex phenomenon, therefore numerical modeling is not an easy issue. The aim of this article is to present the phenomenon known as showering arc and to compare the results obtained during laboratory measurements with simulations using ready-made element offered in the program Matlab Simulink. This phenomenon is based on a rapid ignition and extinguishing of the electric arc between the relay contacts when opening them. The effect of this phenomenon are electromagnetic disturbances, the maximum voltage of which might be many times greater than the nominal voltage. For this reason, these disturbances may cause malfunctioning electronic devices or lead to its damage.