Master Thesis: Study of an electrical arc behavior for a resonance DC circuit interrupter

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This Position Reports To
R&D Team Lead

Details

• Proposed Start: Spring semester 2026, or as mutually agreed
• Number of credits: 30 ECTS
• Location: ABB Corporate Research, Västerås, Sweden

Your Role And Responsibilities
The increasing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions has accelerated the integration of renewable energy sources and battery energy storage systems into modern power networks. Concurrently, the increase of DC-powered electrical loads—such as data centers, electric vehicles, and other battery-based technologies—has led to a growing presence of direct current (DC) electrical networks. In this context, DC circuit interrupters are critical components for ensuring the reliability, resilience, and stability of emerging DC grids.

Interrupting DC current presents unique challenges due to the absence of a natural current zero crossing, as found in alternating current (AC) systems. Consequently, DC interrupters must actively force the current to zero. Among the various topologies explored for DC interruption, passive resonant DC interruption has emerged as a promising approach. This topology typically consists of an electromechanical switch connected in parallel with an inductor and a series-connected, initially uncharged capacitor. Upon opening the switch, the interaction between the electrical arc and the parallel resonant branch is expected to induce amplified oscillations that drive the current to zero.

At ABB Corporate Research in Västerås, several innovative DC interruption technologies have been successfully developed. This Master thesis aims to investigate the application of one of such concepts to enable passive resonance-based interruption. The project will involve both modelling and experimental characterization of arcs and its applicability to a resonance DC breaker.

Responsibilities

• Literature Review: Conduct a review of existing DC interruption topologies and their technical requirements
• Simulation: Utilize simulation tools (e.g., Finite element tools, or circuit simulators) to model the behavior of highly constricted arcs and their interaction with circuit components
• Experimental Work: Design and fabricate test components, perform laboratory experiments, and analyze the resulting data to evaluate system performance
• Documentation: Prepare a detailed report documenting all methodologies, findings, and conclusions

Qualifications For The Role

• Education: Enrolled in a Master's program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Technical Skills: Experience in electrical circuit simulation and/or Finite Element tools
• Knowledge Base: Familiarity with current interruption phenomena in electrical grids is advantageous
• Personal Attributes: The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, analytical, well-organized, and possess a strong curiosity for research and innovation

More About Us
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation. We see our purpose as being to enable a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting our engineering and digitalization expertise, we help industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. We call this: 'Engineered to Outrun.'

Recruiting Manager Thomas Eriksson, or Supervisor

Mrunal Parekh, will answer your questions.

Positions are filled continuously. Please apply with your CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter in English. We look forward to receiving your application

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A Future Opportunity

Please note that this position is part of our talent pipeline and not an active job opening at this time. By applying, you express your interest in future career opportunities with ABB.

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