The circuit breaker is a switching device designed for passing current and switching an electrical circuit. Most often they are installed in those rooms where uninterrupted power is needed . Reversible circuit breaker is widely used in hospitals, large stores and other non-industrial enterprises. It is common practice to install this equipment in country houses.
The main task of the circuit breakers is to prevent a short circuit. The universality of the models allows you to install them both horizontally and vertically. The reversing circuit breaker is designed for networks with an alternating voltage of not more than 650 V and constant up to 450 V. Installing circuit breakers of this type is quite easy. Typically, cables are connected by busbars. If the device is designed for 160 A, a DIN rail is used, with a higher rating, a mounting rail.
One of the most common models is the reversing switch OT40F3C. Its technical specifications fully comply with safety requirements. A feature of this device is a quick switch to the backup line. This happens automatically without operator intervention.
Varieties of knife switches
All modern circuit breakers are currently divided into three groups:
- cross over;
- bursting;
- reversible.
Cross over switches
Rocker switches are designed to transfer voltage between two circuits or switch several lines at the same time. Such equipment is installed in panel rooms or near the entrance panel. The positions of the latch may be one or two. The use of a changeover type breaker allows you to save electric current in the system in an emergency or instantly switch to a working line. The lever is located on the external panel.
Explosive device
Explosive breakers are designed to connect only one outgoing electrical circuit. The lever is located on the external panel. With their help, food in apartments and houses is connected to a common electrical network. It is these devices that are most in demand at present, since they are used in almost any residential building. In addition, explosive breakers are installed in special switchboards.
Reversible switches
For an electric circuit of a three-phase current, a reversible switch is used. Thanks to it, a completely uninterrupted current supply can be ensured. The load with their help is distributed on several lines with complete conservation of power supply. Such devices can be activated either manually or by remote control.
Design features of a reversing switch
Modern knife switches are equipped with a knife contact system, in the process of closing which metal knives enter the fixed spring clamps. When using such a system, there is no possibility of breaking the contact in an arbitrary way, that is, under its own weight. Manual circuit breaker drive, which is used, for example, when inspecting or repairing an electrical system.
Specifications
All modern circuit breakers, depending on the number of poles, are divided into single, double and triple poles with the possibility of switching in 1-2 directions.
Also, the flip reversible switch, based on the location of the external clamps, is divided into devices with a perpendicular or parallel output. There are also combined options.
On sale there are circuit breakers with auxiliary contacts that contribute to protection against possible overloads of the mains or short circuit. When the equipment is turned off, they provide a visual double break in the section of the electric circuit: one from the side of the supply wire, the other from the load.
If there is a need for switching an electric circuit under high voltage, it is recommended to purchase a reversing switch with a so-called arcing chamber, inside of which the extinction of the electric arc takes place, which avoids device malfunction.