Modern electrics and power industry cannot do without switching devices. The latter are aimed at creating a gap on the supply side, which ensures that the wiring of the house or electrical installation is serviced by specialized personnel. The most common hardware option is considered to be a load switch. What is it, what are the specifics for home and distribution networks, read on.
What is a load break switch?
The presented concept should be understood as a switching device that provides disconnection of rated load currents without damaging the equipment. The device in question is not capable of withstanding short circuit currents, so the presence of overcurrents leads to the destruction of the structural element.
Currently, there are two types of switching. The first is for high voltagedistribution networks, has a vertical or horizontal design. In this case, the product is located in the middle between the line separator and the vacuum/oil circuit breaker. The peculiarity lies in the use of special systems for extinguishing the electric arc. In most cases, these are quenching chambers using quartz glass.
The second one is designed to create electricians at home, made in the form of specialized machines. The main difference is related to the design features that provide more practical working conditions. Let's consider each option of load breakers in detail.
Distribution networks: VN and its device
As noted above, the presented switching devices have different variations in the type of installation. Available in horizontal/vertical and outdoor/indoor versions. Each equipment has its own marking, which allows you to identify all the features of the product. For example, decoding VNZ-16 suggests the presence of arc chutes and grounding knives, which are switched on at the input after the load switch is turned off.
The operation of the devices assumes the presence of a three-phase contact group, which is closed using a mechanical or automatic drive. The device provides switching off the rated current with relative safety in terms of the formation of an electric arc. Please note that over time, with incorrect operation of switchingcamera devices burn out. This turns the circuit breaker into a line disconnector.
In modern conditions, automatic load breakers are becoming increasingly popular, the control of which is tied to the control room. Such elements perfectly cope with the tasks set, ensure the practicality of the power system.
Benefits of using VN
The equipment has a number of advantages, which are manifested in the following points:
- Safety of personnel, which guarantees no arcing. Despite the introduction of thermal overalls, the presence and serviceability of arc chutes bring more comfort when switching.
- Relatively cheap due to the simplicity of the design. The switching device does not require batteries for mechanical maintenance.
- Modern types of load break switches have additional features in the form of grounding knives, fuses and other elements that bring practicality in operation, additional protection.
- The ability to automate networks, which is a good alternative to vacuum circuit breakers in terms of cost and other technical features.
Such advantages are enough to stop on this embodiment of switching at private substations. As for the issues of cost, the purchase of VN is cheaper by 2.5 times compared to vacuum cleaners.
HH for home use
Specialized switching devices are used not only in distribution networks, but also for home electricians. In this case, the load break switches are a knife switch / circuit breaker, which performs the function of protecting against short circuits and creating a gap. Products of this type are sold in various variations in the number of phases. The contact is disconnected in one or more places, depending on the specification of the device. Note that there are no fundamental differences between the machine and the switch for home use.
The only difference can be associated with better operating conditions, durability. The switch-on rating for short-circuit current is much higher than that of alternative circuit breakers. Now almost all domestic and foreign companies produce such devices.
Trip: types of protection
VN for the home involves the use of the same protections as conventional machines. It is important to highlight the following here:
- Protection against earth fault current. In the presence of a short circuit, the automation is turned off. Works great in tandem with the RCD, which is aimed specifically at the implementation of the tasks.
- Heat protection. Interfacial shorting or lack of contact suggests an increase in temperature levels that affect the special alloy stud. When the latter is weakened, the switching device is switched off.
There are no features and differences compared to AB 0.4 kilovolts in the device. Therefore, you do not need to overpay for the purchase of low-voltage switches. This will save a lot of money and will allow you to do all the wiring in the house cheaper.
Conclusion
Today, there are two types of HV, which are used in electrical and energy. The first option is equipped with a load break switch drive, arc chutes and other auxiliary elements. Used to create a visible break and extinguish the arc when loaded. The second option involves working like an automaton. There are no fundamental differences, the main purpose is to protect the wiring in the house and de-energize it for safe maintenance.
