CLC number: TM5
On-line Access: 2024-08-27
Received: 2023-10-17
Revision Accepted: 2024-05-08
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Slade Paul G., Li Wang-Pei, Mayo Stephen, Smith R. Kirkland, Taylor Erik D.. Vacuum interrupter, high reliability component of distribution switches, circuit breakers and contactors[J]. Journal of Zhejiang University Science A, 2007, 8(3): 335-342.
@article{title="Vacuum interrupter, high reliability component of distribution switches, circuit breakers and contactors",
author="Slade Paul G., Li Wang-Pei, Mayo Stephen, Smith R. Kirkland, Taylor Erik D.",
journal="Journal of Zhejiang University Science A",
volume="8",
number="3",
pages="335-342",
year="2007",
publisher="Zhejiang University Press & Springer",
doi="10.1631/jzus.2007.A0335"
}
%0 Journal Article
%T Vacuum interrupter, high reliability component of distribution switches, circuit breakers and contactors
%A Slade Paul G.
%A Li Wang-Pei
%A Mayo Stephen
%A Smith R. Kirkland
%A Taylor Erik D.
%J Journal of Zhejiang University SCIENCE A
%V 8
%N 3
%P 335-342
%@ 1673-565X
%D 2007
%I Zhejiang University Press & Springer
%DOI 10.1631/jzus.2007.A0335
TY - JOUR
T1 - Vacuum interrupter, high reliability component of distribution switches, circuit breakers and contactors
A1 - Slade Paul G.
A1 - Li Wang-Pei
A1 - Mayo Stephen
A1 - Smith R. Kirkland
A1 - Taylor Erik D.
J0 - Journal of Zhejiang University Science A
VL - 8
IS - 3
SP - 335
EP - 342
%@ 1673-565X
Y1 - 2007
PB - Zhejiang University Press & Springer
ER -
DOI - 10.1631/jzus.2007.A0335
Abstract: The use of vacuum interrupters (VIs) as the current interruption component for switches, circuit breakers, reclosers and contactors operating at distribution voltages has escalated since their introduction in the mid-1950’s. This electrical product has developed a dominating position for switching and protecting distribution circuits. VIs are even being introduced into switching products operating at transmission voltages. Among the reasons for the VI’s popularity are its compactness, its range of application, its low cost, its superb electrical and mechanical life and its ease of application. Its major advantage is its well-established reliability. In this paper we show how this reliability has been achieved by design, by mechanical life testing and by electrical performance testing. We introduce the “sealed for life” concept for the VI’s integrity. We discuss this in terms of what is meant by a practical leak rate for VIs with a life of over 30 years. We show that a simple high voltage withstand test is an easy and effective method for monitoring the long-term vacuum integrity. Finally we evaluate the need for routine inspection of this electrical product when it is used in adverse ambient environments.
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