A circuit breaker having an arc quenching system is provided. The quenching system includes an ablative device positioned within a chamber. On end of the ablative device includes an opening that receives a stationary contact. A movable contact arm travels within a channel between the closed position and an open position. When an abnormal operating condition is detected, the circuit breaker trips causing the contact arm to move. This generates a plasma arc that evaporates material from the ablative device. The evaporated material generates a pressurized gas that cools and quenches the plasma arc to improve the performance of the circuit breaker during undesired operating conditions such as a short circuit.