The problems arising while switching a circuit off with a miniature contact elements

The paper presents analysis of voltage time patterns occurring at a low-voltage contact switch while switching off an electric circuit of induction character. In such a situation an electric discharge appears in the intercontact gap. The mechanism of generation of such a discharge is displayed and the conditions of its occurrence are considered. It was shown that while switching off the inductive circuit a shock voltage wave is generated, that may adversely affect operation of quick switching systems.