Abstract
Time constants of flat arc bands, burning between nonevaporating plates, were theoretically and experimentally investigated. Neglecting the convection term, the relevant energy balance equation was solved in a one-dimensional approximation. Expressions for the distribution of electrical gradient were inversely proportional to the plate distance and were dependent, as well, on the heat-flux potential. The arc time-constant was proportional to the square of the plate distance and inversely proportional to the thermal diffusivity. Measurements at current zero of alternating-current arcs, operating at 2000 c/s and 1000 amperes, confirmed the strong dependency of the arc time-constant on the plate distance. Time constants as small as 0.1 μs were obtained.

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