Switchgear

Abstract

To provide a switch capable of improving current interrupting performance by forming a return passage between the inside and the outside of an arc extinguishing chamber with a simple structure of the arc extinguishing chamber.SOLUTION: A switch includes: a fixed electrode 1 having a fixed contact 3; a movable electrode 2 having a movable contact 4 that comes into contact with and separates from the fixed contact 3; an arc running plate 5 electrically connected to the movable electrode 2, disposed opposite the fixed electrode 1, and configured to run an arc 20 generated between a pair of contact portions 34 of the fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4; a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 arranged on both left and right sides in the running direction of the arc 20 so as to sandwich the fixed electrode 1, the movable electrode 2, and the arc running plate 5; and a plurality of vent holes 8 respectively provided in the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 along the traveling direction of the arc 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a switch that extinguishes an arc to interrupt a current. [Background technology]

[0002] In a switch, when a pair of electrodes are separated from a closed state in which they are in contact with each other to an open state, an arc occurs between the electrodes. In conventional switches, in order to efficiently exhaust high-temperature gas accompanying the generation of an arc, an arc induction passage is formed by insulating plates arranged in an arc-extinguishing chamber so as to sandwich the arc, and a return passage for returning the gas is also formed between the insulating plates and the side wall of the arc-extinguishing chamber (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In the invention of Patent Document 1, an insulating plate arranged in an arc extinguishing chamber is provided with a return hole inclined in the return direction, thereby promoting exhaust from the arc induction passage inside the insulating plate to the space to the side wall of the arc extinguishing chamber outside the insulating plate.

[0004] However, when an insulating plate is not provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber due to the reduction in size and weight of the arc-extinguishing chamber, and a return passage is formed between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber to promote the exhaust of high-temperature gas, the return hole formed in the insulating plate in the invention of Patent Document 1 is a structure that does not take into consideration air intake, so if it is placed on the side wall of the arc-extinguishing chamber, it may hinder the formation of the return passage between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber, which causes a problem of reduced current interruption performance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 57-53036 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present disclosure has been made to solve the problems described above, and provides a switchgear having improved current interruption performance by forming a return passage between the inside and outside of the arc extinguishing chamber, taking into consideration both exhaust and intake, and facilitating the removal of high-temperature conductive gas generated by the arc from the arc extinguishing chamber. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The switch according to the present disclosure comprises a fixed electrode having a fixed contact, a movable electrode having a movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the fixed contact, an arc running plate that is electrically connected to the movable electrode, is disposed opposite the fixed electrode, and allows an arc generated between a pair of contact portions of the fixed contact and the movable contact to run, a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates that are disposed on both the left and right sides of the arc running direction so as to sandwich the fixed electrode, the movable electrode, and the arc running plate, and a plurality of vent holes that are provided in each of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates along the arc running direction. The vent hole has a hole diameter enlarging in a direction toward the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber formed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates at a rear of the arc traveling direction, and a rectifying valve is provided to promote intake of air from the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber. . The switchgear of the present disclosure comprises a fixed electrode having a fixed contact, a movable electrode having a movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the fixed contact, an arc running plate electrically connected to the movable electrode and arranged opposite the fixed electrode, allowing an arc generated between a pair of contact portions of the fixed contact and the movable contact to run, a pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates arranged on both the left and right sides of the traveling direction of the arc so as to sandwich the fixed electrode, the movable electrode and the arc running plate, and a plurality of ventilation holes provided in each of the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates along the traveling direction of the arc. The ventilation holes are formed in a tapered shape, with the hole diameter increasing in the direction toward the outside of the arc extinguishing chamber formed between the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates, rearward of the traveling direction of the arc. The switch according to the present disclosure includes a fixed electrode having a fixed contact, a movable electrode having a movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the fixed contact, an arc traveling plate that is electrically connected to the movable electrode, is disposed opposite the fixed electrode, and allows an arc generated between a pair of contact portions of the fixed contact and the movable contact to travel, a pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates that are disposed on both the left and right sides of the traveling direction of the arc so as to sandwich the fixed electrode, the movable electrode, and the arc traveling plate, a plurality of vent holes provided in each of the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates along the traveling direction of the arc, and a plurality of vent holes disposed between the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates. and a plurality of arc-extinguishing plates arranged between the fixed electrode and the arc-running plate in a direction intersecting the running direction of the arc, wherein the vent hole is provided across a running passage which is a space through which the arc runs and which connects the pair of contact portions and the arc-extinguishing plates between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, and the number of the vent holes provided at positions corresponding to the pair of contact portions and the positions corresponding to the arc-extinguishing plates on the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates is greater than the number of the vent holes provided at a central position between the pair of contact portions and the arc-extinguishing plates in the running passage of the arc. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the switchgear of the present disclosure, the simple structure of the arc-extinguishing chamber allows a return passage to be formed between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber, taking into consideration both exhaust and intake, thereby facilitating the removal of high-temperature gas having conductivity generated by the arc from the arc-extinguishing chamber, and improving current-interrupting performance. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a switch according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a side plate in which an air vent is formed in the switch according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram showing an example of distribution of temperature and pressure in an arc extinguishing chamber in the switch according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a switch according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a switch according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a side plate in which an air hole is formed in a switch according to embodiment 4. FIG. [Figure 7] 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a side plate in which an air vent is formed in a switch according to embodiment 5. FIG. [Figure 8] 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a vent hole in a switch according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9] 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a vent hole in a modified example of a switch according to embodiment 6. FIG. [Figure 10] 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of an air vent in a switch according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0011] Embodiment 1 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a switch 100 according to a first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the switch 100 has a fixed electrode 1, a movable electrode 2, an arc travel plate 5, an arc extinguishing plate 6, and an arc extinguishing chamber side plate .

[0012] The fixed electrode 1 has a fixed contact 3. The movable electrode 2 has a movable contact 4 which comes into contact with and separates from the fixed contact 3. The fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4 face each other and are arranged so that they can come into contact with and separate from each other. When the fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4 move away from their mutually contacting state, an arc 20 is ignited between the electrodes. For ease of explanation, the fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4 are defined as a pair of contact portions 34 here. The arc 20 is generated between the pair of contact portions 34.

[0013] The arc traveling plate 5 is electrically connected to the movable electrode 2 and disposed opposite the fixed electrode 1, and guides the arc 20 generated between the fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4 to cause it to travel.

[0014] A pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 are arranged on both the left and right sides of the traveling direction of the arc 20, sandwiching the fixed electrode 1, the movable electrode 2, and the arc traveling plate 5. The cross-sectional view shown in Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view parallel to the arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. The arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 are arranged parallel to the traveling direction of the arc, sandwiching the traveling arc 20. An insulating material is used as the material for the arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. An arc-extinguishing chamber 9 is formed by a space surrounded by the fixed electrode 1, the movable electrode 2, the arc travel plate 5, and the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. The arc-extinguishing chamber 9 is formed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, which are side walls of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9.

[0015] The multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6 are located between a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. In the first embodiment, the multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6 are fixed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, and are arranged at predetermined intervals between the fixed electrode 1 and the arc running plate 5 in a direction intersecting the running direction of the arc 20. The multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6 are housed inside the arc-extinguishing chamber 9, and the arrangement direction intersects with the running direction of the arc 20 so as to divide the arc 20. The arc-extinguishing plates 6 are also called arc-extinguishing grids, and are made of a magnetic material. 1 shows an example in which the arc-extinguishing plates 6 extend in the traveling direction of the arc 20, and the arrangement direction of the multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6 is perpendicular to the traveling direction of the arc 20. The arrangement direction of the arc-extinguishing plates 6 is not limited to a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the arc 20, and as long as it intersects with the traveling direction, the arc 20 can be divided. In the arc-extinguishing chamber 9, the arc 20 advances along the traveling path from the contact portion 34 toward the arc-extinguishing plates 6, enters the entrances of the multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6, is divided by the arranged multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6, and is extinguished by the arc-extinguishing plates 6. The arc-extinguishing chamber 9 is formed as an arc-extinguishing space.

[0016] Here, the traveling direction of the arc refers to the direction in which the arc 20 leaves the contact portion 34 in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 and travels toward the arc-extinguishing plate 6 while being guided by the arc travel plate 5 . In addition, in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, the space through which the arc 20 travels from the pair of contact portions 34 to the arc-extinguishing plate 6 is the travel path of the arc 20. The travel path of the arc 20 communicates between the pair of contact portions 34 and the arc-extinguishing plate 6, and also serves as an arc guiding path through which the arc 20 is induced. The pair of contact portions 34 are located upstream of the travel path of the arc 20 and are positioned rearward in the travel direction of the arc 20. The arc-extinguishing plate 6 is located downstream of the travel path of the arc 20 and is positioned forward in the travel direction of the arc 20. The entrance of the arc-extinguishing plate 6 is the starting point of the arc-extinguishing plate 6 in the traveling direction of the arc 20 , and is the end position of the arc-extinguishing plate 6 facing the arc 20 .

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of vent holes 8 are provided in each of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 across the travel path of the arc 20 that communicates between the pair of contact portions 34 and the arc-extinguishing plate 6 . 1 are arranged at equal intervals along the direction in which the arc travels. Moreover, the vents 8 provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the direction in which the arc 20 travels.

[0018] Next, the operation of the switch 100 will be described. When the contacts are closed, the fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4 are in physical contact, and the fixed electrode 1 and the movable electrode 2 are electrically connected. When the contacts are opened, the movable contact 4 is separated from the fixed contact 3, and an arc 20 is generated between the fixed contact 3 and the movable contact 4. An electromagnetic force acts on the arc 20 due to a magnetic field formed by the current flowing through the fixed electrode 1 and the movable electrode 2, so the arc 20 is driven in the direction of the arc traveling plate 5. Since the movable electrode 2 and the arc traveling plate 5 are electrically connected, the arc 20 is commutated to the arc traveling plate 5 on the movable electrode 2 side. Furthermore, an electromagnetic force acts on the arc 20 due to the magnetic field formed by the current flowing through the fixed electrode 1 and the arc travel plate 5, so that the arc 20 is driven and travels in the direction of the arc-extinguishing plate 6 between the fixed electrode 1 and the arc travel plate 5. Finally, the arc 20 is divided by the arc-extinguishing plate 6, completing the interruption of the current.

[0019] Next, the ventilation hole 8 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 1, showing a schematic structure of an arc-extinguishing plate 6 fixed between arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 in a direction perpendicular to the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 in which vent holes 8 are formed. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view parallel to the traveling direction B of an arc 20. As shown in Figure 2, a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 are arranged on both the left and right sides of the traveling direction B of the arc 20, and a plurality of ventilation holes 8 are provided in each of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 so as to be arranged at uniform intervals in the traveling direction B.

[0020] 2 shows a state in which the arc 20 is driven in the traveling direction B indicated by the solid arrow and travels toward the arc-extinguishing plate 6. In this state, a typical distribution example showing the change in temperature and pressure along the traveling path in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9, between a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, is shown in FIG.

[0021] In the graph of FIG. 3, the horizontal axis indicates the distance at dashed line C in arbitrary units, which indicates the distance in the traveling direction B of the arc 20. The vertical axis indicates the temperature and pressure along dashed line C, each in arbitrary units. The solid and dashed lines in the graph indicate the temperature and pressure distributions, respectively, inside the arc extinguishing chamber 9. In FIG. 3, the pressure inside the arc extinguishing chamber 9 is indicated as a gauge pressure. The gauge pressure is a relative value with respect to atmospheric pressure (the difference from atmospheric pressure), and a gauge pressure of 0 indicates that it is equal to atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, a negative value for the gauge pressure means that it is lower than atmospheric pressure, and a positive value for the gauge pressure means that it is higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0022] In the temperature distribution shown in Fig. 3, position 20a with the highest temperature corresponds to the center of arc 20 shown in Fig. 2. The right side of position 20a shown in Fig. 3 corresponds to the right side of arc 20 toward arc-extinguishing plate 6 shown in Fig. 2, and represents the temperature and pressure in front of arc 20 in traveling direction B. The left side of position 20a shown in Fig. 3 corresponds to the left side of arc 20 shown in Fig. 2, and represents the temperature and pressure in the rear of arc 20 in traveling direction B.

[0023] Normally, ionized high-temperature gas tends to remain behind the arc 20 in the direction of travel, and when the current is interrupted, a discharge path is formed again in the area where the high-temperature gas remains due to the high voltage applied between the electrodes, which may cause the restrike phenomenon. The restrike phenomenon not only increases the wear on the contacts, but also prevents the arc from reaching the arc-extinguishing plate 6, which prevents the current limiting effect from being obtained and causes the current interruption to fail.

[0024] Therefore, as shown in Figure 3, focusing on the existence of a region in which the gauge pressure is positive in front of the traveling direction of the arc 20 and negative in the rear of the traveling direction of the arc 20, a plurality of ventilation holes 8 are provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 across the traveling path of the arc 20.

[0025] 2, as the arc 20 travels from the contact portion 34 toward the arc-extinguishing plate 6, air is exhausted to the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through the vent hole 8 provided in front of the arc 20, and air is drawn in from the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through the vent hole 8 provided behind the arc 20, forming a return passage G between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9. The direction in which air is drawn in from the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through the vent hole 8 behind the arc 20 is flow direction G1 indicated by the dashed arrow, and the direction in which air is exhausted to the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through the vent hole 8 in front of the arc 20 is flow direction G2 indicated by the dashed arrow.

[0026] The gas flow in the return passage formed between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 can improve the cooling effect of the high-temperature gas generated by the arc 20 in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9. In particular, since a plurality of ventilation holes 8 are provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 across the travel path of the arc 20, a return passage is formed that takes into consideration both the exhaust and intake of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9. This allows the high-temperature gas in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 to be cooled efficiently. Compared to the gas return passage formed inside the arc-extinguishing chamber in the invention of Patent Document 1, the cooling effect of the high-temperature gas can be improved, and the number of parts can be reduced and the device can be made smaller and lighter due to the simplified structure.

[0027] According to the switch of the first embodiment, the multiple vent holes are provided in the side plate of the arc-extinguishing chamber across the arc passage that connects the contacts and the arc-extinguishing plate, and the simple structure of the arc-extinguishing chamber allows a return passage that takes into consideration both exhaust and intake between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber, facilitating the removal of conductive high-temperature gas generated by the arc from the arc-extinguishing chamber and improving the extinguishing effect. It is possible to provide a highly reliable switch that can prevent restrike between the contacts and has improved current interruption performance.

[0028] Embodiment 2 In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted. Hereinafter, a switch 101 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a switch 101 according to the second embodiment. In the switch 100 according to the first embodiment, the multiple vent holes 8 provided in the arc extinguishing chamber side plate 7 are arranged at approximately equal intervals in the traveling path of the arc 20 between the contacts and the arc extinguishing plate. In contrast, in the switch 101 according to the second embodiment, in the arc extinguishing chamber side plate 7, the number of vent holes 8 provided at the position corresponding to the pair of contact parts 34 and the position corresponding to the arc extinguishing plate 6 is greater than the number of vent holes 8 provided at the central position between the pair of contact parts 34 and the arc extinguishing plate 6 in the traveling path of the arc 20.

[0030] Here, the position corresponding to the pair of contact portions 34 refers to a certain range on the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 centered on the position of the contact portions 34. The position corresponding to the arc-extinguishing plate 6 refers to a certain range on the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 centered on a predetermined location of the arc-extinguishing plate 6. For example, it refers to a certain range on the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 centered on the inlet of the arc-extinguishing plate 6. Alternatively, it refers to a certain range on the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 centered on the central part of the arc-extinguishing plate 6 in the extension direction. In addition, the central position between the pair of contact portions 34 and the arc extinguishing plate 6 in the traveling path of the arc 20 refers to a certain range on the arc extinguishing chamber side plate 7 centered on the middle position between the contact portions 34 and the arc extinguishing plate 6, or an approximately central position close to the middle position.

[0031] 4, a plurality of ventilation holes 8a are provided near the contact portion 34 on the upstream side of the arc travel path, and a plurality of ventilation holes 8b are provided near the entrance of the arc extinguishing plate 6 on the downstream side of the arc travel path. In contrast, this is a structural example in which no ventilation holes are provided between the contact portion 34 and the arc extinguishing plate 6 near the center position of the travel path of the arc 20.

[0032] 4, no vent hole is disposed near the center of the arc travel path, but by disposing more vent holes at the positions corresponding to the contact portion 34 and the arc-extinguishing plate 6 than at the center of the arc 20 travel path, it is possible to alleviate stagnation of gas in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9. In this case, as the arc 20 progresses, air is exhausted to the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through vent hole 8b disposed near the arc-extinguishing plate 6 in front of the arc, and air is drawn in from the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through vent hole 8a disposed near the contact portion 34 behind the arc, promoting the formation of a return path.

[0033] The switch according to the second embodiment provides the same effects as the switch according to the first embodiment. In addition, by providing a large number of ventilation holes at key locations corresponding to the contact parts and the arc extinguishing plates, the formation of a return passage between the inside and outside of the arc extinguishing chamber is promoted, gas stagnation in the arc extinguishing chamber 9 is alleviated, and the cooling effect of the high-temperature gas is further improved.

[0034] Embodiment 3 In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted. Hereinafter, the switch 102 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a switch 102 according to the third embodiment. In the switch 100 of embodiment 1, the multiple ventilation holes 8 provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 are formed as circular holes, whereas in the switch 102 of embodiment 3, the multiple ventilation holes 28 provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 are formed as slits.

[0036] 5, a plurality of ventilation holes 28 are provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 across the traveling path of the arc 20, and are formed as slits extending in a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the arc 20. The plurality of ventilation holes 28 are arranged at approximately equal intervals along the traveling direction of the arc 20.

[0037] As the arc 20 progresses, air is exhausted to the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through a vent 28 provided in front of the arc, and air is drawn in from the outside through a vent 28 provided behind the arc, forming a return passage between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9.

[0038] The switch according to the third embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. Furthermore, by forming the ventilation hole in a slit shape in embodiment 3, the amount of gas exhausted and the amount of gas intake are increased compared to the round hole-shaped ventilation hole in embodiment 1, thereby further improving the arc cooling effect.

[0039] Embodiment 4 In the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted. Hereinafter, the switch 103 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0040] 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a schematic structure of an arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 and an arc-extinguishing plate 36 in which an air hole 8 is formed in a switch 103 according to embodiment 4. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view parallel to a traveling direction B of an arc 20.

[0041] In the switch 100 of embodiment 1, the arc-extinguishing plate 6 shown in Figure 2 is sandwiched between the inner sides of a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 and fixed between the arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, whereas in the switch 103 of embodiment 4, the arc-extinguishing plate 36 has a connecting portion located between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 and a pair of protrusions arranged on the outer sides of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7.

[0042] As shown in Figure 6, in the switch 103, the arc-extinguishing plate 36 has a connecting portion 36a, which is the portion located between a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, and a first protrusion 36b and a second protrusion 36c, which are two protrusions that protrude toward the traveling direction B of the arc 20 from the outside of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, so as to sandwich the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. The portion of the arc-extinguishing plate 36 located between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates serves as a connecting portion 36a, which extends to the ends of the first protruding portion 36b and the second protruding portion 36c on the opposite side to the protruding direction, and connects the first protruding portion 36b and the second protruding portion 36c. The arc-extinguishing plate 36 has a C-shaped structure.

[0043] 6, the connecting portion 36a located between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 is an example of a structure fixed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. In addition, the connecting portion 36a extends perpendicular to the protruding direction and connects the two protruding portions. The arc-extinguishing plate 36 includes a connecting portion 36a fixed between a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, and a first protrusion 36b and a second protrusion 36c located on opposite sides of the connecting portion 36a and arranged to sandwich the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 together with the connecting portion 36a from the outside of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7. The pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 are arranged such that one is sandwiched between the connecting portion 36a and the first protruding portion 36b, and the other is sandwiched between the connecting portion 36a and the second protruding portion 36c.

[0044] Like the multiple arc-extinguishing plates 6 in the first embodiment, the multiple arc-extinguishing plates 36 in the fourth embodiment are arranged at predetermined intervals in the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 between the fixed electrode 1 and the arc running plate 5 in a direction intersecting the running direction of the arc 20. The arc 20 enters the entrances of the multiple arc-extinguishing plates 36 and is divided by the arranged multiple arc-extinguishing plates 36.

[0045] In the arc-extinguishing chamber 9, the occurrence of the arc 20 may generate a pressure several times higher than atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, since a large number of vent holes 8 are provided, the strength of the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 may decrease, and the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 may be deformed or damaged by the pressure. Therefore, as shown in Figure 6, by positioning the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 so that it is sandwiched between the arc-extinguishing plates 36, the two protrusions and the connecting portion of the arc-extinguishing plate 36 act as beams supporting the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7, thereby improving its strength.

[0046] In addition, since the arc-extinguishing plate 36 is made of a magnetic material, it generates a driving force outward in the width direction, enhancing the deionization effect by causing a bias in the magnetic field around the arc 20 and extending the arc 20 in the direction of the magnetic material, making it easier for the arc 20 to extend in the direction of the arc-extinguishing plate 36.

[0047] The switch according to the fourth embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. In addition, since the arc-extinguishing plates are arranged in an E-shape so as to sandwich a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, in addition to improving the strength of the switch, a highly reliable switch with improved current interruption performance can be provided.

[0048] Embodiment 5. In the fifth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted. Hereinafter, the switch 104 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0049] 7 is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a schematic structure of an arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 and an arc-extinguishing plate 6 in which a vent hole 48 is formed in a switch 104 according to embodiment 5. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view parallel to a traveling direction B of an arc 20.

[0050] In the switch 100 of embodiment 1, the multiple ventilation holes 8 provided in the side plate are formed in the shape of round holes, whereas in the switch 104 of embodiment 5, the multiple ventilation holes 48 provided in the arc extinguishing chamber side plate are formed in a tapered shape.

[0051] 7, in the switch 104, the vent 48 provided in the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 includes a tapered vent 48a provided in the front to promote exhaust and a tapered vent 48b provided in the rear to promote intake in the traveling direction B of the arc 20. By making the vent in a tapered shape, a rectifying effect is obtained that makes it easier for the flow of the passing gas to flow in one direction.

[0052] Vent 48a provided at the front in the traveling direction of arc 20 has a tapered shape with a hole diameter increasing in the direction toward the inside of arc-extinguishing chamber 9. Vent 48b provided at the rear in the traveling direction of arc 20 is formed so as to have a tapered shape with a hole diameter increasing in the direction toward the outside of arc-extinguishing chamber 9.

[0053] For example, in the traveling path of the arc 20, the range from the center position of the traveling path to a position corresponding to the arc extinguishing plate 6 can be defined as the front in the traveling direction of the arc 20, and the range from the position corresponding to the contact portion 34 to the center position of the traveling path can be defined as the rear in the traveling direction of the arc 20, and tapered vents 48 that promote exhaust and intake can be provided in each area. Also, the number of vents 48a and vents 48b does not need to be equal, and for example, the range can be set to the rear in the traveling direction of the arc 20 until it passes the center position of the traveling path, and more vents 48b that promote intake can be provided than vents 48a that promote exhaust. This makes it possible to realize the ventilation port 48 having a rectifying effect such that intake air predominates behind the traveling direction of the arc 20 and exhaust air predominates ahead of the traveling direction of the arc 20.

[0054] In addition, either the ventilation hole 48b for promoting intake may be provided behind the traveling direction of the arc 20, or the ventilation hole 48a for promoting exhaust may be provided ahead of the traveling direction of the arc 20, or both may be provided.

[0055] The switch according to the fifth embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. In addition, by providing a tapered vent that promotes both exhaust and intake, a straightening effect is obtained in the return passage, further enhancing the cooling effect of high-temperature gas, and preventing the restrike phenomenon between the contacts, thereby providing a highly reliable switchgear with further improved current-interrupting performance.

[0056] Embodiment 6 In the sixth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same or corresponding parts is omitted. Hereinafter, the switch 105 according to the sixth embodiment and the switch 106 of the modified example will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0057] 8 and 9 are cross-sectional views of essential parts showing a schematic structure of vent hole 8 provided in arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 in switch 105 according to embodiment 6. FIG. The switch 105 according to the sixth embodiment is a configuration in which the rectifying effect obtained by the tapered vent hole 48 in the switch 104 according to the fifth embodiment is realized by a valve structure. In the switch 105 according to the sixth embodiment, a rectifying valve 15 is provided in the vent hole 8.

[0058] Fig. 8 shows a structure in which a rectifying valve 15 that promotes intake is provided at vent hole 8. As shown in Fig. 8, at vent hole 8 provided rearward in the traveling direction B of arc 20, rectifying valve 15 that increases the hole diameter in the direction toward the outside of arc extinguishing chamber 9 is installed. Fig. 8(a) shows rectifying valve 15 in an open state, and Fig. 8(b) shows rectifying valve 15 in a closed state.

[0059] The rectifying valve 15 uses, for example, a leaf spring to open and close the vent 8. As shown in Fig. 8(a), the spring of the rectifying valve 15 bends against a flow G3 in the intake direction from the outside to the arc-extinguishing chamber 9, opening the vent 8. Also, as shown in Fig. 8(b), the spring of the rectifying valve 15 bends against a flow G4 in the exhaust direction from the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 to the outside, closing the vent 8, closing the vent 8. In other words, the rectifier valve 15 promotes intake but acts as a check valve to prevent exhaust. The rectifier valve 15 allows selective intake and exhaust of gas, so by arranging the rectifier valve 15 at a location where the high-temperature gas in the arc-extinguishing chamber is not discharged from the viewpoint of the switchgear structure and insulation, the impact of the high-temperature gas on the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 can be minimized, while the high-temperature gas can be cooled by drawing in air from the outside.

[0060] Moreover, Fig. 9 shows a structure as a modification of the sixth embodiment, in which a rectifying valve 25 for promoting exhaust is provided at the vent hole 8 in the switch 106. As shown in Fig. 9, at the vent hole 8 provided forward in the traveling direction B of the arc 20, a rectifying valve 25 for increasing the hole diameter in the direction toward the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 is provided in order to promote exhaust from the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 to the outside. Fig. 9(a) shows the rectifying valve 25 in an open state, and Fig. 9(b) shows the rectifying valve 25 in a closed state.

[0061] The rectifying valve 25 uses, for example, a leaf spring to open and close the vent hole 8. As shown in Fig. 9(a), the spring of the rectifying valve 25 bends against a flow G5 in the exhaust direction from the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 to the outside, opening the vent hole 8. As shown in Fig. 9(b), the spring of the rectifying valve 25 bends against a flow G6 in the intake direction from the outside to the arc-extinguishing chamber 9, closing the vent hole 8, closing the vent hole 8. In addition, it is possible to install both a rectifying valve 15 for promoting intake of air from the outside to the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 at the vent hole 8 behind the arc 20 shown in Fig. 8, and a rectifying valve 25 for promoting exhaust of air from the inside to the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 at the vent hole 8 ahead of the traveling direction of the arc 20 shown in Fig. 9. This improves the rectifying effect in the return passage.

[0062] The switch according to the sixth embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. In addition, by providing a straightening valve in the ventilation port to control the intake or exhaust, a straightening effect is obtained in the return passage, further enhancing the cooling effect of the high-temperature gas, and preventing the restrike phenomenon between the contacts, thereby providing a highly reliable switchgear with further improved current-interrupting performance.

[0063] Embodiment 7 In the seventh embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted. Hereinafter, the switch 107 according to the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0064] 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a schematic structure of an arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 and an arc-extinguishing plate 6 in a switch 107 according to embodiment 7. FIG.

[0065] In the seventh embodiment, a pair of auxiliary plates 10 are provided on the outer sides of a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7 so as to face each other with a fixed distance between them. As shown in FIG. 10, by disposing an auxiliary plate 10 outside the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 , the gap between the arc-extinguishing chamber side plate 7 and the auxiliary plate 10 is formed as a shunt passage 11 .

[0066] As described in the first embodiment, air is drawn from the outside to the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through the vent 8 behind the arc 20 in a flow direction G1, and exhausted to the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 through the vent 8 in front of the arc 20 in a flow direction G2. A return passage G is formed between the inside and outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9. The flow direction of the gas in the branched flow path 11 is a flow direction G7 indicated by a dashed arrow from the front to the rear of the traveling direction of the arc 20. The flow direction G7 is the flow direction of the gas return flow in the branched flow path 11 of the return passage G.

[0067] By positioning the auxiliary plate 10 on the outside of a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates 7, the gas flow is aligned in flow direction G7 along the auxiliary plate 10, the return passage G is easily formed, and the intake of air in flow direction G1 from the outside to the inside of the arc-extinguishing chamber 9 is also promoted.

[0068] The switch according to the seventh embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. In addition, by placing an auxiliary plate on the outside of a pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, the formation of a return passage is promoted, the cooling effect of the high-temperature gas is further enhanced, and the restrike phenomenon between the contacts can be prevented, thereby providing a highly reliable switchgear with further improved current-interrupting performance.

[0069] It should be noted that the configurations shown in the above embodiments are merely examples of the contents of the present disclosure, and it is possible to combine the embodiments together and to combine them with other known technologies, and it is also possible to omit or modify parts of the configurations without departing from the gist of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1 fixed electrode, 2 movable electrode, 3 fixed contact, 4 movable contact, 5 arc travel plate, 6, 36 arc extinguishing plate, 7 arc extinguishing chamber side plate, 8, 8a, 8b, 28, 48, 48a, 48b, vent, 9 arc extinguishing chamber, 10 auxiliary plate, 11 shunt flow path, 15 rectifier valve, 20 arc, 34 contact portion, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107 switch

Claims

1. a fixed electrode having a fixed contact; a movable electrode having a movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the fixed contact; an arc travel plate electrically connected to the movable electrode, disposed opposite the fixed electrode, and allowing an arc generated between a pair of contact portions between the fixed contact and the movable contact to travel; a pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates arranged on both the left and right sides in the arc travel direction so as to sandwich the fixed electrode, the movable electrode, and the arc travel plate; A plurality of vent holes are provided in each of the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates along the traveling direction of the arc; Equipped with The vent hole has a hole diameter enlarging in a direction toward the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber formed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, rearward in the direction of travel of the arc, and is provided with a straightening valve that promotes the intake of air from outside the arc-extinguishing chamber.

2. A fixed electrode having a fixed contact; a movable electrode having a movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the fixed contact; an arc travel plate electrically connected to the movable electrode, disposed opposite the fixed electrode, and allowing an arc generated between a pair of contact portions between the fixed contact and the movable contact to travel; a pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates arranged on both the left and right sides in the arc travel direction so as to sandwich the fixed electrode, the movable electrode, and the arc travel plate; A plurality of vent holes are provided in each of the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates along the traveling direction of the arc; Equipped with The vent hole is A switch formed in a tapered shape such that a hole diameter increases in a direction toward the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber formed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, behind the arc traveling direction.

3. A fixed electrode having a fixed contact; a movable electrode having a movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the fixed contact; an arc travel plate electrically connected to the movable electrode, disposed opposite the fixed electrode, and allowing an arc generated between a pair of contact portions between the fixed contact and the movable contact to travel; a pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates arranged on both the left and right sides in the arc travel direction so as to sandwich the fixed electrode, the movable electrode, and the arc travel plate; A plurality of vent holes are provided in each of the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates along the traveling direction of the arc; a plurality of arc extinguishing plates disposed between the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates and arranged in a direction intersecting the arc travel direction between the fixed electrode and the arc travel plate; Equipped with The vent hole is provided across a travel passage that is a space through which the arc travels and communicates between the pair of contact portions and the arc-extinguishing plates between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, A switch in which the number of air vents provided at positions corresponding to the pair of contact portions and the position corresponding to the arc extinguishing plate on the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates is greater than the number of air vents provided at a central position between the pair of contact portions and the arc extinguishing plate in the arc travel path.

4. The arc extinguishing plate is located between the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates, and is arranged between the fixed electrode and the arc travel plate in a direction intersecting the travel direction of the arc. The switch according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the ventilation hole is provided across a traveling passage which is a space through which the arc travels and which connects the pair of contact portions and the arc-extinguishing plates between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates.

5. 5. The switch according to claim 3, wherein the arc-extinguishing plate is fixed to the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates.

6. The arc extinguishing plate is Further, two protruding portions protruding from the outside of the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates toward the traveling direction of the arc so as to sandwich the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates, A switchgear as described in any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the portion of the arc-extinguishing plate located between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates serves as a connecting portion, extending to the ends opposite the protruding directions of the two protruding portions, thereby connecting the two protruding portions.

7. The switchgear as described in claim 4, characterized in that the number of the vent holes provided at the positions corresponding to the pair of contact portions and the positions corresponding to the arc-extinguishing plate on the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates is greater than the number of the vent holes provided at a central position between the pair of contact portions and the arc-extinguishing plate in the arc travel path.

8. 8. The switch according to claim 1, wherein the vent holes are arranged symmetrically with respect to a running direction of the arc.

9. 9. The switch according to claim 1, wherein the vent holes are arranged at equal intervals along the traveling direction of the arc.

10. 10. The switch according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation hole is formed as a slit extending in a direction perpendicular to a traveling direction of the arc.

11. The vent hole is 4. A switch as claimed in claim 1 or 3, characterized in that the hole diameter is tapered in a direction toward the outside of the arc-extinguishing chamber formed between the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates, rearward in the direction of travel of the arc.

12. The vent hole is A switch as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the hole diameter is formed in a tapered shape in the forward direction of the arc travelling direction, the hole diameter increasing in the direction toward the inside of the arc extinguishing chamber formed between the pair of arc extinguishing chamber side plates.

13. The vent hole is 4. A switch as claimed in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that a rectifying valve for promoting intake of air from outside the arc-extinguishing chamber formed between a pair of the arc-extinguishing chamber side plates is provided behind the arc in the traveling direction.

14. The vent hole is A switch as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a rectifying valve for promoting exhaust from inside the arc-extinguishing chamber formed between a pair of the arc-extinguishing chamber side plates is provided forward in the traveling direction of the arc.

15. 15. The switch according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of auxiliary plates arranged on the outer sides of the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates and facing each other at a fixed distance from the pair of arc-extinguishing chamber side plates.

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