On the Theory of the Striated Fuse-Wire Disintegration

The multiple arcing observed in h.b.c. fuses having a wire element, which results in a striated fulgurite, is explained. Experimental evidence shows that the number of possbe arcs is larger than the actual number determined from the number of the streaks The energy consumed by multiple arcing of striation is only a small faction ofthe total arc energy. The dynamic axial forces of arcs on each side of a molten wire section interact with the dynamic-pinch force on this section. As a result, the total number of arcs is given by the equilibrium of these forces. This theory can explain known expermental relationships of the modulus of striation versus the wire diameter. Also, the pressure shock wave measurements give some support of the theory.