The Rectification of Alternating Currents with Steel-Enclosed Mercury Arc Power Rectifiers and their Auxiliary Devices

Recently many publications have been issued on mercury arc rectifier installations in this country and in Europe, as well as on the theory of their voltage and current performances. Nevertheless, it seemed that it might be of interest to give a condensed paper dealing with the most important theoretical treatments, as well as a description of a steel enclosed rectifier of modern design. The fundamental theory of these rectifiers is discussed, touching only slightly upon the physical phenomena, but treating particularly of the theory involved in the practical applications. The effects of various factors on the rectifier characteristics and operation are dealt with, and the methods used for calculating the relations of voltages, currents, transformer ratings, etc., are given and tabulated. Moreover, there are mentioned the latest developments of the rectifier proper, as well as the auxiliary devices. Included in this is the design of the transformers from a mechanical point of view, making them rigid enough to stand the mechanical stresses forced upon the windings under abnormal operating conditions; and from an electrical point of view, giving the characteristics of connections such as zig-zag windings, special polyphase windings, and the introduction of reactance absorption coils in the neutral connections of the transformer. Special attention is also paid to the anodes and their cooling equipment, and to the seals; several ingenious points being brought out in their construction.