Current limiting contact arrangement

A current limiting contact arrangement comprising, in combination:

• stationary and movable contact means providing spaced parallel oppositely directed current paths therein, said movable contact means being biased for engagement with said stationary contact means and being separable therefrom by electromagnetic repulsion forces established by fault currents in said stationary and movable contact means;
• and
• an arc runner having a first end electrically connected to said stationary contact means through normally closed contact means, a transfer segment adjacent said first end extending along a path of movement of said movable contact means, and a continuing portion extending from said transfer segment to a second end which is electrically connected to said stationary contact means at a point distinct from said connection of said first end thereto;
• wherein initial separating movement of said movable contact means from said stationary contact means establishes an electric arc therebetween, said arc being directed from said movable contact means away from said stationary contact means onto said transfer segment during continued separating movement of said movable contact means for establishing an arc current path from said movable contact means through said transfer segment and said normally closed contact means to said stationary contact means, and
• wherein forces associated with gases produced by said arc effect opening of said normally closed contact means for interrupting said arc current path therethrough and redirecting said arc current path through said transfer segment and said continuing portion to said stationary contact means for increasing the resistance of said arc current path and the voltage of said arc.