A Compact, Low Resistance, Low Force Electrical Connection for High Current Applications

Drawout switchgear connectors presently are limited in their high current withstand capacity. They also pose problems because of their size, high rack-on forces, and relatively high resistance. The solution to these problems was found to be the use of a large number of well defined, independent contact spots. These contact spots are generated by an inclined helix as the interface between conductors. Analysis of the resistance and curtent withstand of this configuration is made and compared to experiment. Test results demonstrating reliability are included.