System and method for point on wave closing of a vacuum interrupter

A method for closing contacts in a vacuum interrupter during a closing operation, the vacuum interrupter being controlled by a magnetic actuator, the method comprising:

• determining bounce characteristic of the contacts during the closing operation;
• determining a response of the magnetic actuator from the time being commanded closed and closing the contacts;
• identifying available close initiation points on a voltage wave for a voltage across the contacts;
• selecting one or two of the close initiation points on the voltage wave using the bounce characteristics and the actuator response that minimizes accumulation of current during the closing operation;
• and
• closing the vacuum interrupter using the selected close initiation point.