section 6
troubleshootinG
6.8 arc current detector circuits
There are three Arc Current Detector circuits in the ESP-400C. One is used internally to control the Pilot Arc Contactor, K4.
The other two are available for remote use.
A galvanically isolated transistor Current Detector Output is accessible at J1-A (-) and J1-B (+). J1 is the 19 conductor con-
nector on the ESP-400C front panel. The transistor is best suited for switching small relays or low current logic signals like
those utilized by PLC's (Programmable Logic Controllers). The transistor can withstand a maximum peak voltage of 150V.
It can switch a maximum of 50 mA. The transistor turns on whenever the arc current through the Work Lead exceeds 5A.
Pilot arcs not establishing main arcs will not turn on the transistor.
A second current detector output is available at TB8-3 and TB8-4. This output is supplied by an isolated relay contact rated
for 150V, 3 Amperes. This contact is closed when the primary input power to the ESP-400C is off. It opens whenever pri-
mary power is supplied to the power source, and it closes when main arc current is established. Like the transistor output,
the relay contact closes whenever the arc current through the Work Lead exceeds 5A. Pilot arcs not establishing main arcs
will not close the contact.
J1-A J1-B
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