Uses of theory in the design of sliding electrical contacts

The broadly based use of theory for understanding, and hence improving, electrical contacts is considered. The author discusses such uses in four areas: (i) studies of monolithic metal-graphite brushes for determining their operating limits; (ii) development of high-performance metal fiber brushes based on theoretical considerations; (iii) developing a computer program for calculating contact spot temperatures, being the principal determinant of top brush performance; and (iv) studies of microscopic processes at a-spots including adsorbed layers, with the aim of optimizing the operating conditions of sliding contacts.<>