Load break switch assembly with shunt vacuum interruption
The load break switch assembly with shunt vacuum interruption addresses the challenges of transitioning from SF6 to dry air by using a vacuum interrupter and transmission cam design, ensuring efficient arc extinguishing and reliable operation while reducing environmental impact.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-22
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-26
AI Technical Summary
Existing load break switches face challenges in transitioning from SF6 gas to dry air as an insulation medium due to lower insulation properties of air, difficulty in arc quenching, and potential explosions during switching operations, necessitating a design that ensures efficient and reliable interruption of fault currents and isolation of faulty sections without SF6.
A load break switch assembly incorporating shunt vacuum interruption, featuring a vacuum interrupter connected in parallel with each phase, a transmission cam with an insulation part, and an operating mechanism that directs fault current making in the air medium, utilizing a vacuum environment for arc extinguishing and maintaining vacuum pressure for reliable rotation.
The design achieves efficient arc extinguishing, enhanced safety, and reliable operation by minimizing electrical arcing, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring synchronized movement during switching operations.
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Figure IB2024059200_26032026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] LOAD BREAK SWITCH ASSEMBLY WITH SHUNT
[0002] VACUUM INTERRUPTION
[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004]
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the isolation system for power distribution and more particularly to a load break switch assembly used in electrical systems, specifically incorporating the concept of Shunt Vacuum Interruption. The invention aims to provide an improved design that ensures efficient interruption of fault currents and reliable isolation of faulty sections in electrical circuits, without the use of SF6 gas.
[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0006]
[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of it being mentioned in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0007]
[0003] SF6 (Sulfur Hexafluoride) gas has been widely used in electrical applications due to its excellent insulation and arc quenching capabilities. Its usage allowed manufacturers to reduce the size of switchgears and ring main units, saving space and simplifying transportation and installation processes.
[0008]
[0004] However, the environmental impact of SF6 has become a significant concern due to its contribution to the greenhouse effect. SF6 is a potent greenhouse gas that has high atmospheric stability and the ability to trap infrared radiation. It is estimated to be 23,500 times more effective at trapping infrared radiation than CO2 over a 100-year period. Additionally, SF6 has a long atmospheric lifetime of 3,200 years, leading to its accumulation and persistence in the atmosphere.
[0009]
[0005] Awareness of the environmental impact of SF6 has led to regulatory actions and initiatives worldwide. The United States, through the California Clean Air Resources Board, has implemented a phase-out plan for SF6 with a focus on reducing its Global Warming Potential (GWP) to a value of <1, with reporting requirements for higher values. In Europe, where SF6 leakage is a concern, the F-gas regulation is under review, including the possibility of an SF6 ban. Several countries, such as Denmark and Spain, have imposed penalties on utilities for SF6 losses. Efforts are being made to develop SF6-free alternatives, with funding support in progress.
[0010]
[0006] In Japan, there is a focus on reducing SF6 leakage to 0.1% per year, exceeding the acceptable values stated by IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and the country has already defined seven requirements for SF6 alternatives. South Korea's KEPCO is actively supporting the development of SF6-free 170 kV 50 kA equipment. The UK's National Grid Company (NGC) has announced plans to stop the procurement of SF6 275-400 kV switchgear from 2024.
[0011]
[0007] To overcome and move beyond the use SF6 gas has been a challenge. Engineers and professionals working in this field have tried to replace SF6 gas with a more environmentally friendly alternative such as dry air, which has a global warming potential of zero. However, several issues need to be addressed to successfully transition to dry air as an insulation medium in electrical equipment:
[0012] 1. Electrical Insulation: Air has lower insulation properties compared to SF6 gas, making it challenging to achieve the same overall dimensions for tanks and enclosures. Meeting the lightning impulse requirements specified by IEC 62271 for the rated voltage becomes difficult without the presence of a noble gas with superior insulation properties.
[0013] 2. Switching Operations: Switching operations in load break switches rely on the properties of the insulating gas to quench the arc and maintain its properties. SF6 gas is a self-restoring gas, allowing for reliable switching. Achieving the same level of performance in air is possible for contact closing by incorporating a high-speed operating mechanism. However, breaking operations in air is very difficult due to immediate arcing between the closing and opening contacts, leading to potential explosions regardless of the operating speed.
[0014]
[0008] Hence there exists a need in the art for a load break assembly for for electrical systems, to enable a successful transition from SF6 to dry air as the insulation medium in load break switches, ensuring efficient and reliable operation while minimizing the environmental impact. Such a design should ensure efficient interruption of fault currents and reliable isolation of faulty sections in electrical circuits, without the use of SF6 gas.
[0015] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016]
[0009] Embodiment of the present invention discloses a load break switch assembly that incorporates shunt vacuum interruption. The assembly comprises, but not limited to, a load break switch with a main fixed contact and a moving contact, an operating mechanism, and a vacuum interrupter connected in parallel with each phase of the load break switch. Also, a transmission cam is connected to the operating mechanism to control the opening and closing operations.
[0017]
[0010] During the opening operation, the operating mechanism initiates the process by having the moving contact touch the transmission cam before leaving the main fixed contact. The connection between the moving contact and the transmission cam remains, enabling the shunt vacuum interrupter to open and extinguish the generated arc. The moving contact then settles in the open position.
[0018] [Oil] During the closing operation, the operating mechanism ensures that the moving contact touches the insulation part of the transmission cam instead of the conductive part. This design choice directs fault current making to occur in the air medium rather than inside the vacuum interrupter. The vacuum interrupter pressure assists in rotating the transmission cam back to its original position for subsequent opening operations. The moving contact settles in the closed position.
[0019]
[0012] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the insulation part of the transmission cam is made of a non-conductive material, ensuring that fault current making occurs in the air medium rather than inside the vacuum interrupter during the closing operation.
[0020]
[0013] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum interrupter comprises a sealed chamber filled with a vacuum environment to provide arc extinguishing capabilities during the opening operation.
[0021]
[0014] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum interrupter pressure is maintained within a predetermined range to facilitate reliable rotation of the transmission cam and ensure proper functioning of the load break switch.
[0022]
[0015] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the load break switch assembly further comprises a moving mold and guiding brackets along with the moving contact; a return spring and a copper alloy proximal to the main contact and vacuum interrupter; and an earth contact.
[0023]
[0016] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the operating mechanism comprises a motor-driven automatic mechanism or a manual mechanism for controlling the opening and closing operations of the load break switch.
[0017] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the transmission cam is mechanically coupled to the Vacuum Interrupter Opening Cylinder to ensure synchronized movement during the opening and closing operations.
[0024]
[0018] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the load break switch further comprises interlocking mechanisms to prevent simultaneous closing of the load break switch and the vacuum interrupters.
[0025]
[0019] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the load break switch and the vacuum interrupters are enclosed in an insulating housing for enhanced safety and protection against environmental factors.
[0026]
[0020] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the load break switch further comprises position indicators to provide feedback on the current state selected from open or closed, or earth, of the switch.
[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028]
[0021] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular to the description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. These and other features, benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following text figure, with like reference numbers referring to like structures across the views, wherein:
[0029]
[0022] Fig. 1A illustrates a load break switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0030]
[0023] Fig. IB illustrates a detailed view of main fixed contacts and vacuum interrupters of the assembly of fig. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0031]
[0024] Fig. 1C illustrates a detailed view of moving contacts of the assembly of fig. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0032]
[0025] Fig. ID illustrates a detailed view of operating mechanism of the assembly of fig. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] Fig. IE illustrates a detailed view of a vacuum interrupter of the assembly of fig. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0033]
[0027] Fig. 2A-2B illustrates a closed position and an open position of the load break switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035]
[0028] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e., meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[0036]
[0029] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of’, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[0037]
[0030] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, a number of materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[0038]
[0031] The present invention will now be described in detail with the help of accompanying drawings:
[0039]
[0032] Figure 1A illustrates a load break switch assembly 100 (hereinafter referred to as “the assembly”), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In general, a load break switch or assembly in electrical insulation refers to a mechanism or device that is designed to safely interrupt or disconnect an electrical circuit under load conditions. In other words, it allows for the opening of a circuit while current is flowing through it, without causing excessive arcing or damage to the insulation. Load break assemblies are commonly used in medium-voltage and high-voltage electrical systems, such as in power distribution networks or industrial settings. These switches provide a means to isolate faulty equipment or sections of a network for maintenance or repair purposes without affecting the entire system. These technologies help prevent excessive heat, arcing, or damage to the insulation and surroundings, thereby playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical systems by allowing for the controlled interruption of circuits under load conditions without effecting the insulation or other nearby components.
[0040]
[0033] As shown in figure 1 A, the assembly 100 comprises, but not limited to, a load break switch with a main fixed contact 102 and a moving contact 104, an operating mechanism 110, and a vacuum interrupter 106 connected in parallel with each phase of the load break switch. Also, a transmission cam (116) is connected to the vacuum interrupter moving part to synchronize the opening operation. The operating mechanism (110) provides the external means of opening and closing operations for the moving contact block (114) to ensure that the concept is working as designs in both open and closing operations.
[0041]
[0034] The load break switch is envisaged to have a closed position and an open position. Now, Fig. 1B-1D illustrates a detailed view of the different components of the load break switch assembly of Fig. 1 A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0042]
[0035] Figure IB, illustrates a detailed view of the main fixed contact 102. As shown in Fig. IB, the main fixed contact 102 remains in place and forms a primary electrical connection in the closed position of the load break switch. The main fixed contact 102 is provided proximal to the vacuum interrupter 106 and connected via a copper bar 1064. In a preferred embodiment, multiple vacuum interrupters 106 are arrange in parallel and secured on vacuum interrupter holder 1062.
[0043]
[0036] Further, the assembly 100 is equipped with high-grade electrical bushings (122, 124), strategically positioned to facilitate the safe passage of conductors through the grounded assembly casing. These bushings (122, 124) are crafted from advanced insulating materials, providing superior dielectric strength to prevent electrical discharges and maintain the necessary insulation between the live conductors and the metallic body of the assembly. The innovative design of the bushings (122, 124), including their tapered shape and the use of high-durability coatings, significantly enhances the safety and longevity of the assembly, contributing to its reliable operation in various electrical environments.
[0044]
[0037] Fig. 1C then shows that the moving contact 104 is provided on moving mold 114 along with Phase Insulating brackets 112. The moving contact 104 is adapted to move and make the electrical connection with the main fixed contact 102 and is configured for interrupting a current flow when the switch is opened through the shunt vacuum interrupter. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the load break switch assembly 100 may further include a return spring (not shown) and a copper alloy 116 proximal to the main fixed contact 102 and vacuum interrupter 106. In some embodiments, there may be an earth contact 120 provided in the assembly 100 to enable in-built grounding mechanism for excessive or leakage current, to ensure safe operation. The main fixed contact 102, the moving contact 104 and the ground / earth contact 120 are made of metal such as, but not limited to, High conductivity copper.
[0045]
[0038] Further provided in the assembly 100 are bus bars 126 serve as the main electrical distribution pathways, expertly engineered to ensure uniform current distribution to all phases of the load break switch. The bus bars 126 are composed of high-conductivity copper alloys, designed to minimize resistance and maximize efficiency. Their robust construction and strategic positioning mitigate the risk of overheating and electrical faults, while also allowing for easy for easy assembly and proper insulation. These features, combined with the compact and practical layout of the bus bars 126, embody the innovative advances in electrical distribution components represented by the current invention.
[0046]
[0039] Additionally, Figure ID, illustrates the operating mechanism 110 of the assembly 100, which is configured to control the opening and closing operations of the load break switch. Herein, the operating mechanism 110 comprises an automatic or a manual mechanism (1206), driven by a motor (1202) for controlling the opening and closing operations of the load break switch. In some embodiments, the operating mechanism 110 may be operated remotely. In that sense, the operating mechanism 110 may have a control panel (not shown) for automatic or remote operation, or a handle for manual operation. Additional components such as, but not limited to, springs (1206), and mechanical linkages may be connected with the handle.
[0047]
[0040] Besides, the transmission cam (116) is operated by the moving mold (114), where the moving mold (114) is operated by the mechanism (110). This movement is well designed to synchronize the movement between moving mold (114), vacuum interrupter (1064) and cam (116). The transmission cam is envisaged to include an insulation part (118). The insulation part (118) may be made of a non-conductive material, and adapted to ensure that fault current making, occurs in the air medium rather than inside the vacuum interrupter 106 during the closing operation.
[0048]
[0041] Moreover, the present invention incorporates the shunt vacuum interruption technology, instead of using the SF6 gas. In general, the Shunt Vacuum Interruption is a technique used in load break switches where a vacuum interrupter 106 is connected in parallel with each phase of the switch. This configuration allows for the interruption of load currents and the isolation of faulty sections in an electrical circuit.
[0049]
[0042] In this arrangement, the load break switch serves as the primary means of interrupting normal load currents. It is designed to handle the continuous flow of current during normal operation. However, in the event of a fault, such as a short circuit, the load break switch may not be able to break the fault but it can close (make) on fault and it can withstand the short circuit current passing through the moving and fixed contacts.
[0043] To address this, vacuum interrupters 106 are connected in parallel with each phase of the load break switch. A detailed view of the vacuum interrupter 106 is illustrated in figure IE. These vacuum interrupters 106 are specifically designed to handle load current interruption. In that sense, the vacuum interrupter 106 comprises a sealed chamber 1066 filled with a vacuum environment to provide arc extinguishing capabilities during the opening operation.
[0050]
[0044] When a fault occurs, the fault current flows through the load break switch (fixed and moving contacts and not the vacuum interrupter), the load break switch cannot break the fault current, it can only break the load current by considering the shunt vacuum interrupter.
[0051]
[0045] The vacuum interrupters 106 have superior interrupting capabilities due to the vacuum inside them. When the load break switch initiates the interruption, the vacuum interrupters 106 quickly extinguish the resulting arc. The vacuum environment prevents re-ignition of the arc and provides a reliable means of interruption. The vacuum interrupter’s 106 pressure is maintained within a predetermined range to facilitate reliable rotation of the transmission cam and ensure proper functioning of the load break switch.
[0052]
[0046] By connecting vacuum interrupters 106 in parallel with each phase of the load break switch, the shunt vacuum interruption technique ensures that load currents are interrupted effectively, minimizing the risk of damage to the electrical system and maintaining the overall reliability of the circuit. It enhances the overall performance and safety of the load break switch, allowing for reliable interruption of load currents and effective isolation of faulty sections in the electrical circuit.
[0053]
[0047] In one embodiment of the present invention, the load break switch and the vacuum interrupters 106 are enclosed in an insulating housing for enhanced safety and protection against environmental factors.
[0054]
[0048] In another embodiment of the present invention, the assembly 100 may further include, but not limited to, indicators to provide feedback on the current state (open or closed or earthed) of the switch. These indicators can be visual or electronic and help in monitoring the switch's status.
[0055]
[0049] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the assembly 100 may also incorporate interlocking mechanisms to prevent simultaneous closing of the load break switch and the vacuum interrupters 106 or any other interconnected equipment. This ensures safe synchronized operation and avoids potential damage or hazards.
[0056]
[0050] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the assembly 100 may be provided with a mounting arrangement. The load break switch assemblies are typically designed for easy mounting on panels, structures, or equipment. Therefore, there may be provided specific mounting arrangements, such as, but not limited to, brackets or mounting holes, for secure installation.
[0057]
[0051] Method of Operation:
[0058]
[0052] The working of present invention involves opening and closing operation as illustrated in figures 2A-2B. It is assumed that the assembly 100 is in a closed position by default as shown in Fig. 2A. For open position, Figure 2B can be referred.
[0059]
[0053] During the opening operation, the operating mechanism 110 initiates the process. The initiation may be automatic, remote operated or manual (using the handle), depending on the type of operating mechanism 110 being used. The moving contact 104 is configured to first touch the transmission cam before leaving the main fixed contact 102. Once the moving contact 104 separates from the main fixed contact 102, the connection between the moving contact 104 and the transmission cam remains intact. This arrangement pushes the shunt vacuum interrupter 106 to open and effectively clear any generated arc. Afterward, the moving contact 104 is configured to leave the transmission cam and settle in the open position, thereby completing the opening operation.
[0060]
[0054] Now, referring to figure 2B, it is assumed that the assembly 100 is in open position, or it may be assumed to be a continuation from the previous paragraph that ended the load break switch in open position. During the closing operation, the operating mechanism 110 triggers the process. Again, may be automatic, remote operated or manual (using the handle), depending on the type of operating mechanism 110 being used. However, this time, the moving contact 104 is configured to touch the Insulating portion 118 of the cam 116instead of the conductive part. This design choice ensures that fault current making occurs in the air medium rather than inside the vacuum interrupter 106 when the load break switch is closed. The vacuum interrupter’s 106 pressure assists in the rotation of the transmission cam back to its original position, preparing it for subsequent opening operations. In that sense, it is envisaged that the vacuum interrupter’s 106 pressure is maintained within a predetermined range to facilitate reliable rotation of the transmission cam and ensure proper functioning of the load break switch. Finally, the moving contact 104 settles in the closed position, thereby completing the closing operation.
[0061]
[0055] The present invention offers a number of advantages. Advantages of the Load Break Switch Assembly with Shunt Vacuum Interruption Technology:
[0062] Enhanced Safety: The use of shunt vacuum interruption technology reduces the risk of electrical arcing and improves the overall safety of the load break switch assembly.
[0063] Environmentally Friendly: By replacing SF6 gas with dry air, the assembly eliminates the use of SF6, which is a potent greenhouse gas. This contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and mitigating climate change concerns.
[0064] Efficient Arc Extinguishing: The vacuum interrupter connected in parallel with each phase ensures efficient and reliable arc extinguishing during the opening operation, leading to improved switch performance and longevity.
[0065] Synchronized Operation: The mechanical coupling between the transmission cam and the moving contact mold ensures synchronized movement during opening and closing operations, resulting in smooth and coordinated switch actions.
[0066] Flexibility in Operating Mechanisms: The load break switch assembly can accommodate various types of operating mechanisms, including motor-driven automatic mechanisms and manual mechanisms, providing flexibility in operation and control.
[0067] Fault Current Handling: The design ensures that fault current making occurs in the air medium during the closing operation, preventing potential hazards associated with fault currents within the vacuum interrupter.
[0068] Improved Operational Monitoring: The inclusion of position indicators provides feedback on the current state of the switch, enabling better operational monitoring and control.
[0069] Interlocking Mechanisms: The presence of interlocking mechanisms prevents simultaneous closing of the load break switch and vacuum interrupters, ensuring proper sequencing and avoiding operational conflicts.
[0070] Reliable Performance: The load break switch assembly is designed to maintain vacuum interrupter pressure within a predetermined range, ensuring reliable rotation of the transmission cam and consistent performance of the switch over its operational lifetime.
[0071]
[0056] To conclude, the load break switch assembly with shunt vacuum interruption technology offers improved safety, environmental sustainability, and efficient operation, making it a valuable advancement in the field of electrical switching technology.
[0057] Further, one or more operations may be performed by or otherwise related to certain modules, devices or entities. There may be a processing module provided in the assembly described above to automate one or more processes or operate the sensors involved. There may also be a communication network involved in the present invention to facilitate exchange of information or signals between components of the assembly (such as control panel, sensors etc.) or between the assembly and external computing devices.
[0072]
[0058] It should also be understood that, unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the following discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as "controlling" or "obtaining" or "computing" or "storing" or "receiving" or "determining" or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that processes and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.
[0073]
[0059] Various modifications to these embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and the accompanying drawings. The principles associated with the various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown along with the accompanying drawings but is to be providing broadest scope of consistent with the principles and the novel and inventive features disclosed or suggested herein. Accordingly, the invention is anticipated to hold on to all other such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the present invention and the appended claims.
Claims
Claims:
1. A load break switch assembly with shunt vacuum interruption, comprising: a load break switch having a closed position and an open position; a main fixed contact that remains in place and forms a primary electrical connection in the closed position of the switch; a moving contact adapted to move and make or break the electrical connection with the main fixed contact and is configured for interrupting a current flow when the switch is opened; an operating mechanism configured to control the opening and closing operations of the load break switch; a vacuum interrupter connected in parallel with each phase of the load break switch; a transmission cam operated by the movement of the moving contact that is operated by the operating mechanism; wherein during an opening operation: the operating mechanism is configured to initiate the opening operation, causing the moving contact to touch the transmission cam, before leaving the main fixed contact; after the moving contact leaves the main fixed contact, the connection between the moving contact and the transmission cam remains, thereby pushing the shunt vacuum interrupter to open and clear the generated arc; the moving contact is then configured to leave the transmission cam to settle on the open position; wherein during the closing operation: the operating mechanism is configured to initiate the closing operation, causing the moving contact to touch an insulation part of the transmission cam instead of the conductive part; the vacuum interrupter pressure is configured to aid the rotation of the transmission cam, back to the original position for accepting another opening operation; the moving contact is adapted to settle in the closed position.
2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the insulation part of the transmission cam is made of a non-conductive material, ensuring that fault current making occurs in the air medium rather than inside the vacuum interrupter during the closing operation.
3. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the vacuum interrupter comprises a sealed chamber filled with a vacuum environment to provide arc extinguishing capabilities during the opening operation.
4. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the vacuum interrupter pressure is maintained within a predetermined range to facilitate reliable rotation of the transmission cam and ensure proper functioning of the load break switch.
5. The assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a moving mold and guiding brackets along with the moving contact; a return spring and a copper alloy proximal to the main contact and vacuum interrupter; and an earth contact.
6. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the operating mechanism comprises a motor- driven automatic mechanism or a manual mechanism for controlling the opening and closing operations of the load break switch.
7. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the transmission cam is mechanically mechanically stimulated by the moving mold that is operated by the operating mechanism to ensure synchronized movement during the opening and closing operations.
8. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the load break switch further comprises interlocking mechanisms to prevent simultaneous closing of the load break switch and the vacuum interrupters.
9. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the load break switch and the vacuum interrupters are enclosed in an insulating housing for enhanced safety and protection against environmental factors.
10. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the load break switch further comprises position indicators to provide feedback on the current state of the switch, selected from open or closed or earthed.
Citation Information
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