Vacuum interrupter technology

Vacuum interrupters are switching devices that use a pair of separable contacts in an enclosed vacuum-tight chamber. When the switching device is operated, the contacts open and close within the vacuum sealed chamber. As the contacts separate, particles between them are ionized and an arc is created. However, the arc is quickly extinguished because the sealed vacuum chamber acts as the quenching medium.
Lucas Speaker, Power System Experience Center (PSEC) Engineer, walks us through with illustrations of how the internal components interact during operation. In terms of power systems, vacuum interrupter technology is critical in medium voltage transmission and distribution systems and devices. Some examples include:
• Medium voltage breakers
• Vacuum fault interrupter (VFI) transformers
• Medium voltage load break switches
• Reclosers
• Low voltage and medium voltage contactors
• Tap changers
However, Lucas also explains that vacuum interrupter capabilities also allow them to be used for:
• Repetitive switching
• Motor inrush current interruption
• Overcurrent interruption
• Short-circuit protection
Vacuum interrupter design is important to how it performs and the rating at which it can be used. Lucas takes time to show us the three most common designs and their associated ratings:
• Solid butt
• Spiral transverse magnetic field (TMF)
• Axial magnetic field
To learn more about vacuum interrupter specifications and other resources, visit our website: www.eaton.com/us/en-us/catalo...
Thank you for watching one of our many educational videos on the topic of power systems. Schedule a visit to one of Eaton's Power Systems Experience Centers in either Pittsburgh or Houston to learn more!
To learn more about Eaton products and our Power Systems Experience Centers: eaton.com/experience
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Chapters
00:00 Opening
00:12 Introduction
01:30 What is a vacuum interrupter?
02:37 What products use vacuum interrupters?
03:50 Industries that use vacuum interrupters
04:13 Vacuum interrupter design
05:43 Eaton industry standard
07:58 Conclusion
#vacuuminterrupter #powersystem #engineering

[@emrahklc3391]

Can you confirm again Eaton is still producing vacuum interrupters in the USA? My info is Eaton canceled VI production in the USA.

[@liyu3813]

Yes, Eaton is still manufacturing the VI in Horseheads, NY.

[@emrahklc3391]

@@liyu3813 Thank you.

[@m.m.radiochannel1969]

Is this a one time used device or multiple use?

[@emrahklc3391]

@@m.m.radiochannel1969 Mechanical usage is more than 10000 but the Current Breaking capacity depends on current amplitude and VI type. Example 10 times 25kA or 4000 times 3150A.