Bellows for vacuum circuit breaker

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bellows (50) for a vacuum circuit breaker (1), the bellows comprising a collar portion (51), a second collar or mating portion (56) and a flexible portion (57). An outer surface (53) of the collar portion comprises at least one first portion comprising at least one protrusion (54) extending outwardly from the outer surface of the collar portion, and at least one second portion adjacent to the at least one first portion; the flexible portion is located between the collar portion and the second collar or mating portion; the second collar or mating portion is configured to be coupled to a first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker; the at least one second portion is free of contact with an inner surface (31) of an insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker when the collar portion is coupled to the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a bellows for a vacuum circuit breaker and a vacuum circuit breaker. Background Technology

[0002] In medium- and high-voltage vacuum circuit breakers, metal bellows are used to move the movable contacts. Because these bellows are deep-drawn parts, their mechanical tolerances are relatively large compared to machined parts, making their production economical.

[0003] For vacuum circuit breakers, the bellows is assembled such that the cylindrical surface of the bellows aligns with the cylindrical surface of an adjacent component, which may be, for example, a machined part or a ceramic insulator. Due to the relatively large geometric tolerances of the bellows diameter, and also the potentially large geometric tolerances of the adjacent components (e.g., the ceramic insulator), a certain degree of axial alignment misalignment will occur between the bellows and the central axis of the vacuum circuit breaker. In most conventional applications (e.g., for most circuit breakers), this misalignment is acceptable. However, in some applications, axial alignment misalignment can have adverse effects and needs to be controlled to the minimum currently achievable.

[0004] A second problem arises when the bellows is directly brazed to the ceramic insulator. During the service life of the vacuum circuit breaker, the contact material may evaporate. This then forms a metallic coating of the contact material on the inner surface of the ceramic insulator. Due to the small mechanical tolerances of the bellows and, possibly also, the ceramic insulator, a gap may exist between the bellows and the ceramic insulator. The evaporated contact material forms a metallic coating on the surface of the ceramic insulator in the area below the bellows ring, and certainly also on the surface of the ceramic insulator extending to the bellows ring. Because of potential axial misalignment during assembly of the bellows and ceramic insulator, the bellows may contact the inner surface of the ceramic insulator, establishing an electrical contact between the bellows and the conductive metal layer, which could affect the normal operation of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0005] These problems need to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide improved medium-voltage and high-voltage vacuum circuit breakers.

[0007] On one hand, a bellows for a vacuum circuit breaker is provided, the bellows comprising: Ring section; The second ring or mating part; and Flexible part.

[0008] The outer surface of the ring portion includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the ring portion. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion. A flexible portion is located between the ring portion and a second ring or mating portion. The second ring or mating portion is configured to connect to a first contact of a vacuum circuit breaker. The ring portion is configured to connect to an insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker. The insulator is connected to a second contact of the vacuum circuit breaker. When the ring portion is connected to the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker, the outer surface of the ring portion faces the inner surface of the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker. When the ring portion is connected to the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker, at least one second portion of the outer surface of the ring portion is configured not to contact the inner surface of the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0009] Therefore, the bellows can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the insulator, where a conductive coating may form due to the evaporation of the contact material of the vacuum circuit breaker. This evaporated conductive material forms a coating on the inner surface of the insulator, covering a portion of the inner surface extending below the location of the bellows ring. The evaporated conductive material also forms a coating on the inner surface of the insulator up to the ring. Thus, without the protrusion, the ring can contact the inner surface of the insulator at the location of the conductive coating, thereby forming an electrical connection. However, at least one protrusion can be spaced apart from the end of the ring. Therefore, some conductive coating still extends below the ring but does not reach the location of the protrusion. Thus, at least one protrusion does not contact the conductive coating, and the other portion of the ring is spaced apart from the inner surface of the insulator and the conductive coating extending up to the edge of the ring and possibly also below the ring. Therefore, direct electrical contact is not generated between the bellows, and the negative impact of such electrical contact is mitigated.

[0010] Furthermore, the manufacturing tolerances of the bellows are larger than those of other components of the vacuum circuit breaker (they are not manufactured with such precision) because lateral deviation of the bellows relative to the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker is generally not a problem, and the larger tolerances of the bellows make its manufacture more economical. However, in some cases, it is required that the bellows be centered more precisely with the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker. This new development allows for better alignment of the bellows by providing at least one protrusion to maintain its alignment, without having to constrain the tolerances of other bellows components.

[0011] Therefore, the new bellows can be used to replace the existing bellows in existing vacuum circuit breakers to provide a complete system with bellows that are more precisely aligned and a lighter system.

[0012] Therefore, it is important to note that "vacuum circuit breaker" refers to a vacuum circuit breaker without a bellows; a new bellows will be installed on the "vacuum circuit breaker." Thus, for example, a vacuum circuit breaker removes the old bellows and then replaces them with a new one.

[0013] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by pressing the material of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0014] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by providing material on the outer surface of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0015] In one example, when the loop portion is connected to the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the loop portion is configured to contact the inner surface of the insulator of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0016] In one example, at least one protrusion includes at least three protrusions.

[0017] In one example, at least three protrusions include knobs.

[0018] In one example, at least three protrusions include ridges.

[0019] In one example, at least one protrusion includes a ring structure.

[0020] In one example, at least one protrusion is spaced apart from one end of the ring portion, and that end of the ring portion is located at the opposite end of the ring portion opposite to the flexible portion.

[0021] In one example, at least one center of at least one protrusion is spaced apart from the end of the loop portion.

[0022] In one example, the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker is a movable contact, and the second contact of the vacuum circuit breaker is a fixed contact.

[0023] In one example, the second ring or mating portion is a second ring section. The outer surface of the second ring section includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring section. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion of the second ring section. When the second ring section is engaged with the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker, the outer surface of the second ring section faces the inner surface of the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker. When the second ring section is engaged with the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker, at least one second portion of the outer surface of the second ring section is configured not to contact the inner surface of the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0024] Therefore, the central axis of the bellows along its length is more closely aligned with the overall central axis of the vacuum circuit breaker, because both ends of the bellows are aligned with the overall central axis.

[0025] In one example, when the second ring portion is connected to the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion is configured to contact the inner surface of the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0026] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion includes at least three protrusions.

[0027] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion include knobs.

[0028] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion include ridges.

[0029] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion includes an annular structure.

[0030] The aforementioned bellows can be retrofitted to components of existing vacuum circuit breakers.

[0031] However, new vacuum circuit breakers can be manufactured using new bellows.

[0032] Therefore, in a second aspect, a vacuum circuit breaker is provided, comprising: First contact point; Second contact point; Insulators; and Corrugated pipe.

[0033] The insulator is connected to the second contact of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0034] Corrugated pipes include: Ring section; The second ring or mating part; and Flexible part.

[0035] The outer surface of the ring portion includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the ring portion. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion. A flexible portion is located between the ring portion and a second ring or mating portion. The second ring or mating portion is connected to the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker. The ring portion is connected to an insulator. The outer surface of the ring portion faces the inner surface of the insulator. At least one second portion of the outer surface of the ring portion is configured not to contact the inner surface of the insulator.

[0036] Therefore, the bellows can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the insulator, where a conductive coating may form due to the evaporation of the contact material of the vacuum circuit breaker. This evaporated conductive material forms a coating on the inner surface of the insulator, covering a portion of the inner surface extending below the location of the bellows ring. Thus, without the protrusion, the ring can contact the inner surface of the insulator at the location of the conductive coating, thereby forming an electrical connection. However, at least one protrusion can be spaced apart from the end of the ring. Therefore, some conductive coating still extends below the ring but does not reach the location of the protrusion. Thus, at least one protrusion does not contact the conductive coating, and the rest of the ring is spaced apart from the coating. Therefore, the potential for direct electrical contact between the bellows and the insulator is reduced.

[0037] Furthermore, the manufacturing tolerances of the bellows are larger than those of other components of a vacuum circuit breaker because lateral deviation of the bellows relative to the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker is generally not a problem. However, in some cases, it is required that the bellows be more precisely centered on the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker. This new development allows for better alignment of the bellows by providing at least one protrusion that keeps the bellows aligned, without having to constrain the tolerances of other bellows components.

[0038] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by pressing the material of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0039] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by providing material on the outer surface of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0040] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the ring portion is configured to contact the inner surface of the insulator.

[0041] In one example, at least one protrusion includes at least three protrusions.

[0042] In one example, at least three protrusions include knobs.

[0043] In one example, at least three protrusions include ridges.

[0044] In one example, at least one protrusion includes a ring structure.

[0045] In one example, at least one protrusion is spaced apart from one end of the ring portion, and that end of the ring portion is located at the opposite end of the ring portion opposite to the flexible portion.

[0046] In one example, the center of at least one protrusion is spaced apart from the end of the ring portion by a certain distance.

[0047] In one example, the first contact is a movable contact, and the second contact is a fixed contact.

[0048] In one example, the second ring or mating portion is a second ring section. The outer surface of the second ring section includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring section. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion of the second ring section. The outer surface of the second ring section faces the inner surface of the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker. The at least one second portion of the outer surface of the second ring section is configured not to contact the inner surface of the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0049] Therefore, the central axis of the bellows along its length is more closely aligned with the overall central axis of the vacuum circuit breaker, because both end rings of the bellows are aligned with the overall central axis.

[0050] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion is configured to contact the inner surface of the first contact of the vacuum circuit breaker.

[0051] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion includes at least three protrusions.

[0052] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion include knobs.

[0053] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion include ridges.

[0054] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion includes an annular structure. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Exemplary embodiments will now be described with reference to the following figures: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the components of a known vacuum circuit breaker with a known bellows in the closed position is shown; Figure 2 It shows the open position, with Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the components of a known vacuum circuit breaker with a known bellows. Figure 3 It shows the open position, with Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the components of a known vacuum circuit breaker with a known bellows. Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the components of a known vacuum circuit breaker, wherein the original bellows has been removed and replaced with a new type of bellows; and Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the components of a novel vacuum circuit breaker with a novel bellows is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Figures 4-5 The invention relates to a novel bellows for use in vacuum circuit breakers and a vacuum circuit breaker having such a novel bellows.

[0057] An exemplary bellows 50 for a vacuum circuit breaker 1 is now described. The bellows 50 includes: Ring portion 51; The second ring or mating part 56; and Flexible part 57.

[0058] The outer surface 53 of the ring portion 51 includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion 54 extending outwardly from the outer surface 53 of the ring portion 51. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion. A flexible portion 57 is located between the ring portion 51 and a second ring or mating portion 56. The second ring or mating portion 56 is configured to connect to a first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1. The ring portion 51 is configured to connect to an insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1. The insulator 30 is connected to a second contact 40 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1. When the ring portion 51 is connected to the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, the outer surface 53 of the ring portion 51 faces the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1. When the ring portion 51 is connected to the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, at least one second portion of the outer surface 53 of the ring portion 51 is configured not to contact the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1.

[0059] For example Figure 4 As shown, the portion of the outer surface 53 of the ring portion 51 located between the protrusion 54 and the bottom edge 52 of the ring portion 51 remains separated from the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30, thereby remaining separated from any portion of the conductive coating 32 that may be formed on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30.

[0060] Therefore, the bellows can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the insulator, where a conductive coating may form due to the evaporation of the contact material of the vacuum circuit breaker. This evaporated conductive material forms a coating on the inner surface of the insulator, covering a portion of the inner surface extending below the location of the bellows ring. This evaporated conductive material also forms a coating on the inner surface of the insulator up to the ring. Therefore, without the protrusion, the ring can contact the inner surface of the insulator at the location of the conductive coating, thus forming an electrical connection. However, at least one protrusion can be spaced apart from the end of the ring. Therefore, some conductive coating still extends below the ring but does not reach the location of the protrusion. Thus, at least one protrusion does not contact the conductive coating, and the remaining portion of the ring is spaced apart from the inner surface of the insulator and the conductive coating extending up to the edge of the ring and possibly further below it. Therefore, direct electrical contact is not generated between the bellows, and the negative impact of such contact is mitigated.

[0061] Furthermore, the manufacturing tolerances of the bellows are larger than those of other components of the vacuum circuit breaker (they are not manufactured with such precision) because lateral deviation of the bellows relative to the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker is generally not a problem, and the larger tolerances on the bellows make its manufacture more economical. However, in some cases, it is required that the bellows be centered more precisely with the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker. This new development allows for better alignment of the bellows by providing at least one protrusion to maintain its alignment, without having to constrain the tolerances of other bellows components.

[0062] Therefore, the new bellows can be used to replace the existing bellows in existing vacuum circuit breakers to provide a complete system with bellows that are more precisely aligned and a lighter system.

[0063] Therefore, it is important to note that "vacuum circuit breaker" refers to a vacuum circuit breaker without a bellows; a new bellows will be installed on the "vacuum circuit breaker." Thus, for example, a vacuum circuit breaker removes the old bellows and then replaces them with a new one.

[0064] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by pressing the material of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0065] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by providing material on the outer surface of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0066] In one example, when the ring portion 51 is connected to the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, at least one protrusion 54 extending outward from the outer surface 53 of the ring portion 51 is configured to contact the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1.

[0067] In one example, at least one protrusion 54 includes at least three protrusions 54.

[0068] In one example, at least three protrusions 54 include button 54.

[0069] In one example, at least three protrusions 54 include ridges 54.

[0070] In one example, at least one protrusion 54 includes a ring structure.

[0071] In one example, at least one protrusion 54 is spaced apart from the end 52 of the ring portion 51, which is located at the opposite end of the ring portion 51 opposite to the flexible portion 57.

[0072] In one example, at least one center of at least one protrusion 54 is spaced 55 from the end 52 of the ring portion 51.

[0073] In one example, the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1 is a movable contact 10, and the second contact 40 of the vacuum circuit breaker is a fixed contact 40.

[0074] In one example, the second ring or mating portion is a second ring portion 56. The outer surface of the second ring portion 56 includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion 56. The at least one second portion is adjacent to at least one first portion of the second ring portion 56. When the second ring portion 56 is engaged with the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, the outer surface of the second ring portion 56 faces the inner surface of the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1. When the second ring portion 56 is engaged with the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, at least one second portion of the outer surface of the second ring portion 56 is configured not to contact the inner surface of the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1.

[0075] Therefore, the central axis of the bellows along its length is more closely aligned with the overall central axis of the vacuum circuit breaker, because both end rings of the bellows are aligned with the overall central axis.

[0076] In one example, when the second ring portion 56 is connected to the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion 56 is configured to contact the inner surface of the first contact 10 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1.

[0077] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion 56 includes at least three protrusions.

[0078] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion 56 include knobs.

[0079] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion 56 include ridges.

[0080] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion 56 includes an annular structure.

[0081] The aforementioned bellows can be retrofitted to components of existing vacuum circuit breakers.

[0082] However, new vacuum circuit breakers can be manufactured using new bellows.

[0083] This exemplary novel vacuum circuit breaker 2 includes: First contact point 110; Second contact 140; Insulator 130; and 120 corrugated pipe.

[0084] Insulator 130 is connected to the second contact 140 of vacuum circuit breaker 2.

[0085] Bellows 120 includes: Ring part 121; The second ring or mating part 126; and Flexible part 127.

[0086] The outer surface 123 of the ring portion 121 includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion 124 extending outwardly from the outer surface 123 of the ring portion 121. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion. A flexible portion 127 is located between the ring portion 121 and a second ring or mating portion 126. The second ring or mating portion 126 is connected to a first contact 110 of the vacuum circuit breaker 2. The ring portion 121 is connected to an insulator 130. The outer surface 123 of the ring portion 121 faces the inner surface 131 of the insulator 130. At least one second portion of the outer surface 123 of the ring portion 121 is configured not to contact the inner surface 131 of the insulator 130.

[0087] For example Figure 5 As shown, the portion of the outer surface 123 of the ring portion 121 located between the protrusion 124 and the bottom edge 122 of the ring portion 121 remains separated from the inner surface 131 of the insulator 130, thereby remaining separated from any portion of the conductive coating 132 formed on the inner surface 131 of the insulator 130.

[0088] Therefore, the bellows can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the insulator, where a conductive coating may form due to the evaporation of the contact material of the vacuum circuit breaker. This evaporated conductive material forms a coating on the inner surface of the insulator, covering a portion of the inner surface extending below the location of the bellows ring. Thus, without the protrusion, the ring can contact the inner surface of the insulator at the location of the conductive coating, thereby forming an electrical connection. However, at least one protrusion can be spaced apart from the end of the ring. Therefore, some conductive coating still extends below the ring but does not reach the location of the protrusion. Thus, at least one protrusion does not contact the conductive coating, and the rest of the ring is spaced apart from the coating. Therefore, the potential for direct electrical contact between the bellows and the insulator is reduced.

[0089] Furthermore, the manufacturing tolerances of the bellows are larger than those of other components of a vacuum circuit breaker because lateral deviation of the bellows relative to the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker is generally not a problem. However, in some cases, it is required that the bellows be more precisely centered on the axis of the vacuum circuit breaker. This new development allows for better alignment of the bellows by providing at least one protrusion that keeps the bellows aligned, without having to constrain the tolerances of other bellows components.

[0090] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by pressing the material of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0091] In one example, at least one protrusion is formed by providing material on the outer surface of the annular portion of the bellows.

[0092] In one example, at least one protrusion 124 extending outward from the outer surface 123 of the ring portion 121 is configured to contact the inner surface 131 of the insulator 130.

[0093] In one example, at least one protrusion 124 includes at least three protrusions 124.

[0094] In one example, at least three protrusions 124 include button 124.

[0095] In one example, at least three protrusions 124 include ridges 124.

[0096] In one example, at least one protrusion 124 includes a ring structure.

[0097] In one example, at least one protrusion 124 is spaced apart from the end 122 of the ring portion 121, and the end 122 of the ring portion 121 is located at the end of the ring portion opposite to the flexible portion 127.

[0098] In one example, the center of at least one protrusion 124 is spaced 125 from the end 122 of the ring portion 121.

[0099] In one example, the first contact 110 is a movable contact 110, and the second contact 140 is a fixed contact 140.

[0100] In one example, the second ring or mating portion is a second ring portion 126. The outer surface of the second ring portion 126 includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion 126. The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion of the second ring portion 126. The outer surface of the second ring portion 126 faces the inner surface of the first contact 110 of the vacuum circuit breaker 2. At least one second portion of the outer surface of the second ring portion 126 is configured not to contact the inner surface of the first contact 110 of the vacuum circuit breaker 2.

[0101] Therefore, the central axis of the bellows along its length is more closely aligned with the overall central axis of the vacuum circuit breaker, because both ends of the bellows are aligned with the overall central axis.

[0102] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion 126 is configured to contact the inner surface of the first contact 110 of the vacuum circuit breaker 2.

[0103] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion 126 includes at least three protrusions.

[0104] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion 126 include knobs.

[0105] In one example, at least three protrusions extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion 126 include ridges.

[0106] In one example, at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second annular portion 126 includes an annular structure.

[0107] Now refer to the detailed embodiments and Figures 4-5 This paper describes in detail a novel bellows for vacuum circuit breakers and a vacuum circuit breaker having this novel bellows. However, it first refers to... Figure 1-3 Describe the current situation.

[0108] Figure 1 The components of a known vacuum circuit breaker 1 are shown, with the known bellows in the closed position. Figure 2 A vacuum circuit breaker in the open position is shown.

[0109] The annular portion 21 of the bellows 20 is aligned and matched into the insulator 30 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1. After all components are stacked, the vacuum circuit breaker is evacuated and brazed.

[0110] When AC current flows through a vacuum circuit breaker, it interrupts the current flow by opening the contacts. An electric arc forms between the contacts. This arc continues to burn until the next zero-crossing of the AC current. Heat is generated on the contact surfaces, causing metal to evaporate. This metal also partially condenses on the inner surface of the ceramic insulator, reducing the electrical insulation capability of the vacuum circuit breaker. Typically, vacuum circuit breakers have internal shielding to absorb most of the evaporated metal (not shown for clarity), but a small portion of the vaporized metal remains attached to each area of ​​the inner surface of the vacuum circuit breaker. Depending on the design, application, current magnitude, and number of interruptions, after multiple operations, a partially conductive layer forms on the inner surface of the ceramic insulator.

[0111] This is acceptable to a certain extent. However, when this conductive area is directly electrically connected to one of the contacts of the vacuum circuit breaker, the insulation performance of the vacuum circuit breaker will be compromised because the effective insulation distance between the vacuum circuit breaker contacts will be reduced.

[0112] Therefore, continue to refer to Figures 1-3 Due to the evaporation of the material of the movable contact 10 and the fixed contact 40 of the vacuum circuit breaker 1, a partially conductive coating 32 will form on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30. The partially conductive coating 32 may be formed on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30, extending to the bottom edge or end 52 of the annular portion 51 of the bellows 50. In fact, because the bellows have large manufacturing tolerances and there is usually a gap between the annular portion 51 of the bellows and the insulator 30, the partially conductive coating 32 may be formed on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30, slightly below the bottom edge or end 52 of the annular portion 51 of the bellows 50.

[0113] Due to the relatively large tolerance between the inner diameter of the ceramic insulator 30 and the outer diameter of the annular portion 21 of the bellows 20, a certain lateral displacement will occur between the ceramic insulator 30 and the bellows 20. In fact, as... Figure 3 As shown, the annular portion 21 of the bellows 20 has come into contact with the inner surface 31 of the ceramic insulator 30, and an electrical contact has been formed between the bellows 20 and the portion of the conductive coating 32 on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30, and the insulation performance of the vacuum circuit breaker 1 has been negatively affected.

[0114] The new bellows design began to address this problem, and the inventors also faced the situation where, in several cases, a vacuum circuit breaker was required whose bellows was more precisely axially aligned with the other components of the vacuum circuit breaker than currently available. The inventors did not want to specify stricter tolerances for the bellows, which would have significant cost implications, but wanted to evaluate whether modifications to the existing bellows design could provide a solution. The inventors actually made such modifications to address these problems.

[0115] Therefore, see Figure 4 The bellows 50 has three protrusions or protrusions 54 on its outer surface 53. Figure 4 These are actually protrusions 54. These protrusions 54 can be formed by pressing the ring portion 51 from the inside using a press with a small circular shape. However, a single annular protrusion 54 can also be formed, or it can be in a more linear form (multiple segments of a ring) instead of a circular protrusion. The protrusions 54 are spaced apart from the end 52 of the ring portion 51 of the bellows 50 by a distance 55, which ensures that the protrusions 54 do not come into contact with the conductive coating 32 formed on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30 due to contact evaporation below the ring portion 51. Therefore, the outer surface 53 of the ring portion, which previously formed an electrical connection with the conductive coating 32 on the inner surface 31 of the insulator 30, now remains spaced apart from the conductive coating 32. Thus, the insulation performance of the vacuum circuit breaker is not compromised.

[0116] Figure 4 This situation is illustrated, in which the new bellows 50 has been retrofitted onto a component of the existing vacuum circuit breaker 1. Figure 5 A completely new vacuum circuit breaker 2 is shown, which features a newly built-in bellows 120. Bellows 120 can be the same as bellows 50. Furthermore, in Figures 4-5 In this design, protrusions 54 are shown only on the lower annular portions 51 and 121 of the bellows 50 and 120. This mitigates the problem of vacuum circuit breaker insulation degradation caused by electrical contact with the conductive coatings 32 and 132, as discussed above, and also helps to achieve more precise axial alignment of the bellows 50 and 120. However, for further and better axial alignment of the bellows 50 and 120, the second annular portions 56 and 126 at the other end of the flexible portions 57 and 127 of the bellows 50 and 120 may also have protrusions projecting from the outer surface. These protrusions of the second annular portions 56 and 126 then engage with the inner surface of the movable contact and serve to further improve the axial alignment of that end of the bellows 50 and 120.

[0117] Figure Labels

Claims

1. A bellows (50) for a vacuum circuit breaker (1), the bellows (50) comprising: Ring portion (51); Second ring or mating part (56); and Flexible part (57); The outer surface (53) of the ring portion (51) includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion, wherein the at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion (54) extending outward from the outer surface (53) of the ring portion (51), and the at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion; The flexible part (57) is located between the ring part (51) and the second ring or mating part (56); The second ring or mating part (56) is configured to be connected to the first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1). The ring portion (51) is configured to be connected to an insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1), the insulator (30) being connected to the second contact (40) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1). When the ring portion (51) is connected to the insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1), the outer surface (53) of the ring portion (51) faces the inner surface (31) of the insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1); and When the ring portion (51) is connected to the insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1), at least one second portion of the outer surface (53) of the ring portion (51) is configured not to contact the inner surface (31) of the insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1).

2. The corrugated pipe (50) according to claim 1, wherein, When the ring portion (51) is connected to the insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1), the at least one protrusion (54) extending outward from the outer surface (53) of the ring portion (51) is configured to contact the inner surface (31) of the insulator (30) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1).

3. The bellows (50) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one protrusion (54) includes at least three protrusions (54).

4. The bellows (50) according to claim 3, wherein, The at least three protrusions (54) include a button (54).

5. The bellows (50) according to claim 3, wherein, The at least three protrusions (54) include ridges (54).

6. The bellows (50) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one protrusion (54) includes a ring structure.

7. The bellows (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The at least one protrusion (54) is spaced apart from the end (52) of the ring portion (51), the end (52) of the ring portion (51) being located at the opposite end of the ring portion opposite to the flexible portion (57).

8. The bellows (50) according to claim 7, wherein, At least one center of the at least one protrusion (54) is spaced apart from the end (52) of the ring portion (51) by a distance (55).

9. The bellows (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1) is a movable contact (10), and the second contact (40) of the vacuum circuit breaker is a fixed contact (40).

10. The bellows (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The second ring or mating portion is a second ring portion (56). The outer surface of the second ring portion (56) includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion. The at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the outer surface of the second ring portion (56). The at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion. When the second ring portion (56) is connected to the first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1), the outer surface of the second ring portion (56) faces the inner surface of the first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1). When the second ring portion (56) is connected to the first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1), the at least one second portion of the outer surface of the second ring portion (56) is configured not to contact the inner surface of the first contact (10) of the vacuum circuit breaker (1).

11. A vacuum circuit breaker (2), comprising: First contact point (110); Second contact (140); Insulator (130); and Bellows (120); The insulator (130) is connected to the second contact (140) of the vacuum circuit breaker (2). The bellows (120) includes: Ring portion (121); The second ring or mating part (126); and Flexible part (127); The outer surface (123) of the annular portion (121) includes at least one first portion and at least one second portion, wherein the at least one first portion includes at least one protrusion (124) extending outward from the outer surface (123) of the annular portion (121), and the at least one second portion is adjacent to the at least one first portion; The flexible portion (127) is located between the annular portion (121) and the second annular portion or mating portion (126); The second ring or mating part (126) is connected to the first contact (110) of the vacuum circuit breaker (2). The ring portion (121) is connected to the insulator (130). The outer surface (123) of the annular portion (121) faces the inner surface (131) of the insulator (130); and The at least one second portion of the outer surface (123) of the ring portion (121) is configured to not contact the inner surface (131) of the insulator (130).

12. The vacuum circuit breaker (2) according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one protrusion (124) extending outward from the outer surface (123) of the ring portion (121) is configured to contact the inner surface (131) of the insulator (130).

13. The vacuum circuit breaker (2) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The at least one protrusion (124) includes at least three protrusions (124).

14. The vacuum circuit breaker (2) according to claim 13, wherein, The at least three protrusions (124) include a button (124).

15. The vacuum circuit breaker (2) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein, The at least one protrusion (124) is spaced apart from the end (122) of the ring portion (121), the end (122) of the ring portion (121) being located at the opposite end of the ring portion opposite to the flexible portion (127).

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