Arcing Study in High Current Electromechanical Switching for Future 14-42V Dual Voltage Systems

Dual voltage systems 14/42V are about to be adopted on cars.

Electromechanical relays will probably be replaced by semiconductor smart power switches, particularly in the command of fans, compressors, motors and heaters.

On the other end, the use of electro-mechanical devices which guarantee low contact resistances (<0.3 mΩ) substantially temperature independent, high continuous currents (150-200A) and high peak circuit currents (600-800A) during transients and in case of overcurrent, represent an economic alternative to complex high power semiconductor switch.

The paper will explore issues related with the design and the implementation of high current contacts configurations for future 42V systems in order to fulfill low contact resistance and to increase high current interruption capabilities.