I believe the answer to this question is counter intuitive, but we shall see.
I am testing a DC circuit breaker. My circuit consists of a variable inductor and a variable resistor. THAT'S IT !
Now, here's what I know. As Resistance increases with a set Inductance my time constant will decrease, and vice versa for decreases in R. Also, as my Inductance increases, obviously my Time Constant will increase, and decrease if Inductance is lowered, with a set R.
Question ? Why would a time constant of lets say 1 mS be an easier "shot", than a circuit designed with a 10mS time constant ?
The reason I ask is because I'm imagining that if I apply for example 10,000 Amps to a circuit breaker, and my time constant is 1 mS, there's more Current available almost immediately. If I apply the same circuit with a time constant of 10mS the Current available will be substantially less at 1mS.
Another thing I'm sure of is that a longer time constant is a "tougher" shot on a breaker and shorter time constants are for some reason "easier" shot's. I just can't seem to imagine why ? Why ?
I am testing a DC circuit breaker. My circuit consists of a variable inductor and a variable resistor. THAT'S IT !
Now, here's what I know. As Resistance increases with a set Inductance my time constant will decrease, and vice versa for decreases in R. Also, as my Inductance increases, obviously my Time Constant will increase, and decrease if Inductance is lowered, with a set R.
Question ? Why would a time constant of lets say 1 mS be an easier "shot", than a circuit designed with a 10mS time constant ?
The reason I ask is because I'm imagining that if I apply for example 10,000 Amps to a circuit breaker, and my time constant is 1 mS, there's more Current available almost immediately. If I apply the same circuit with a time constant of 10mS the Current available will be substantially less at 1mS.
Another thing I'm sure of is that a longer time constant is a "tougher" shot on a breaker and shorter time constants are for some reason "easier" shot's. I just can't seem to imagine why ? Why ?