Fault current tolerable contactor

摘要

A method an apparatus is disclosed for preventing contact welding during fault conditions. This fault current tolerable contactor includes two magnetic components, one in operable association with the movable contacts, and the other fixable attached above the movable contacts such that when a fault condition occurs, a high magnetic force is created to draw the two magnetic components together thereby opening the contacts. The magnetic force keeps the contacts open at least until current zero, and preferably a defined time thereafter to provide enough time for the contacts to cool and prevent welding upon the closure of the contacts.