Modern electrics and electric power can not do without switching devices. The latter are aimed at creating a gap on the supply side, which ensures maintenance of the house wiring or electrical installation by specialized personnel. The most common hardware option is a load switch. What is it, what are the specifics for home and distribution networks, read on.
What is a load switch?
Under the presented concept should be understood switching device, which provides the disconnection of the rated load currents without damaging the equipment. The device in question is not able to withstand short circuit currents, therefore, the presence of overcurrents leads to the destruction of the structural element.
Currently, there are two types of switching. The first is intended for high-voltage distribution networks, has a vertical or horizontal design. In this case, the product is located in the middle between the linear divider and the vacuum / oil switch. A feature is the use of special arc extinction systems. In most cases, these are quenching chambers using quartz glass.
The second is intended to create electricians at home, made in the form of specialized automatic machines. The main difference is associated with design features that provide more practical working conditions. Let's consider each option of load switches in detail.
Distribution networks: VN and its device
As noted above, the presented switching devices have various variations in the type of installation. There are options with horizontal / vertical as well as indoor / outdoor installation. Each equipment has its own marking, which allows you to determine all the features of the product. For example, the decoding of VNz-16 involves the presence of arcing chambers and grounding knives that turn on at the input after the load switch is turned off.
The operation of the devices involves the presence of a three-phase contact group, which is closed using a mechanical or automatic drive. The device provides disconnection of the rated current with relative safety in terms of the formation of an electric arc. Please note that over time, with improper operation of switching devices, cameras burn out. This turns the switch into a line disconnector.
In modern conditions, automatic load breakers, the control of which is tied to a control room, are becoming increasingly popular. Such elements do an excellent job of their tasks, provide the practicality of the power system.
Benefits of Using HV
The equipment has a number of advantages, which are manifested in the following points:
- Personnel safety, which guarantees the absence of an arc. Despite the introduction of thermal overalls, the presence and serviceability of arcing chambers make it more comfortable when switching.
- Relative cheapness arising from the simplicity of the design. The switching device does not require batteries for mechanical maintenance.
- Modern types of load breakers have additional features in the form of grounding knives, fuses and other elements that make the operation practical and provide 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 dwell on this option for the implementation of switching at private substations. With regard to cost issues, the acquisition of VN is 2.5 times cheaper compared to vacuum cleaners.
VN for home use
Specialized switching devices are used not only in distribution networks, but also for home electricians. In this case, the circuit breakers are a circuit breaker / circuit breaker that performs the function of protecting against short-circuit 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 attributed to better operating conditions, durability. The calculation of the inclusion of short circuit current is much higher than that of alternative AB. Now, almost all domestic and foreign companies produce such devices.
Operation: types of protection
VN for the home involves the use of the same protections as conventional machines. It is important to highlight the following:
- Short circuit protection to ground. In the presence of a short circuit, the automation is turned off. Works great in conjunction with an RCD, which is aimed specifically at the implementation of the tasks.
- Thermal protection. Interfacial closure or lack of contact implies an increase in the temperature level, which affects the stud from specialized alloys. When the latter is weakened, the switching apparatus is switched off.
There are no features and differences compared to AB 0.4 kilovolts in the device. Therefore, there is no need to overpay for the purchase of low-voltage circuit breakers. This will significantly save money and allow you to complete all the wiring in the house cheaper.
Conclusion
To date, there are two varieties of VN that are used in electrics and energy. The first option is equipped with a load breaker drive, arcing chambers and other auxiliary elements. Used to create a visible gap and extinction of the arc under load. The second option involves working on the type of machine. There are no fundamental differences, the main purpose is to protect the wiring in the house and its de-energization for safe maintenance.