Abstract: A power conversion system and methods of power conversion and construction of such a system are disclosed, where the system includes at least two pairs of input and output bus bars, and two pairs of switching devices, with the switching devices of each respective pair coupled in parallel in between a respective pair of the bus bars. When one of the switching devices of each pair is closed, the bus bars of the respective pair of bus bars are short-circuited to one another, thus bypassing the other of the switching devices of each pair. The other of the switching devices of each pair is attached to at least one intermediate portion, which in turn is attached to a mass. Substantially all the heat generated by the other of the switching devices of each pair is communicated to the mass, which has a heat capacity capable of receiving that heat.

Abstract: A method for interrupting current is provided wherein substantially all current is conveyed through a first current carrying path in a circuit interrupter. A movable element is displaced for interruption of the current, and current is directed through both the first current carrying path and a second current carrying path in parallel with the first path The second current carrying path includes at least one variable or controllable resistance element. Both current carrying paths conduct current during interruption, with resistance of the paths driving the current to a null level. Current through the first current carrying path may be terminated prior to current through the second path. The variable resistance element draws current into the second current carrying path once an arc in the first path reaches a resistance sufficient to transition a portion of the current to both paths.