SUMMARY

This research furthers the understanding of systems employing high current electrical pulses transmitted through an electrical contact interface, hence furthering the ability to prevent the formation of electrical arcs and pseudo arcs which lead to damage of components and eventual system failure. To achieve this objective, a current density distribution model and a current density influence model, used in conjunction with experimental testing, were developed. The research was able to predict failure criteria for electrical contact materials under conditions of high current electrical pulses.