Abstract

An electrical interrupter device for switching a short-circuit electrical current in an electric circuit is disclosed. The device comprises a vacuum evacuated housing (58); first and second electrodes (54, 56) at least partially located within the housing. The first and second electrodes (54, 56) are separated by a rail gap. A third electrode (52) moveable relative to the first and second electrodes (54, 56) between a closed circuit position and an open circuit position is provided, whereby an electrical arc is generated between the third electrode (52) and at least one of the first and second electrodes (54, 56) during said movement. Once generated, the arc is directed by the first and second electrodes (54, 56) away from the third electrode (52).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01H 33/664 - ContactsArc-extinguishing means, e.g. arcing rings
• H01H 9/38 - Auxiliary contacts on to which the arc is transferred from the main contacts
• H01H 33/12 - Auxiliary contacts on to which the arc is transferred from the main contacts
• H01H 33/20 - Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using arcing horns