An improved switching apparatus of the hybrid type

Abstract

An improved switching apparatus of the hybrid type. A switching apparatus for electric power distribution grids comprises: a first switching unit having one or more first electric poles, each first electric pole being electrically connectable with a corresponding first line conductor of an electric line and comprising one or more solid-state switches adapted to operate in a conduction state or in an interdiction state to allow or interrupt a current flow, wherein said second switching unit is adapted to switch reversibly between a closed condition, in which said solid-state switches are in a conduction state, and an open condition, in which said solid-state switches are in an interdiction state; a second switching unit having one or more second electric poles, each second electric pole being electrically connectable with a corresponding second line conductor of said electric line and electrically connected in series with a corresponding first electric pole of said first switching unit, each second electric pole comprising electric contacts adapted to operate in a coupled state or on an uncoupled state to allow or interrupt a current flow along said second electric pole, wherein said second switching unit is adapted to switch reversibly between a closed condition, in which said electric contacts are in a coupled state, and an open condition, in which said electric contacts are in an uncoupled state; a controller implementing a robust control logic to the operation of said first and second switching units.

Description

technical field [0001] The invention relates to switching devices for distribution networks, such as circuit breakers or another device of similar type. Background technique [0002] As is well known, low voltage switchgear is used in electrical circuits or grids to allow proper operation of a particular circuit or grid section. For example, these devices can be used to ensure the availability of rated current feeding several utilities, to enable proper insertion and disconnection of electrical loads, and to protect (especially circuit breakers) the grid and Installed electrical loads. [0003] Most conventional switching devices comprise an electromechanical switching unit having one or more poles, each pole comprising a pair of electrical contacts adapted to be coupled or decoupled to allow or interrupt the flow of electrical current. [0004] Although these devices have proven to be very robust and reliable, they exhibit relatively long interruption times primarily at r...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

As such, they often require complex and expensive control resources to ensure satisfactory levels of efficiency and reliability

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