The main component of a load break switch is the arc quenching chamber. Breaking the current flow in vacuum enables the breaking of large electric loads without arc-forming between the main contacts. Analogue to the disconnectors there are two available design types: the rocker type (design B1 and B2) and the knife type (design B3).
Load break switches produced by Rauscher & Stoecklin have the following properties:
- Optional rated nominal voltage for 15kV or 25kV
- Rated nominal currents up to 2’000A
- Rated nominal breaking currents up to 2’000A
- Proven arc quenching chamber with vacuum technology
- Robust and reliable main contacts
- Combination as 2-pole switch possible
- Optional: switch position indicator
- Optional: earthing heel
Catalog Railway Electrification
Catalog [DE] [EN]
Datasheets Railway Electrification
Load Break Switch [DE] [EN]
1. Switch closed:
The switch is closed and the overhead line is energised. The current flows through the main contacts from the source (left) to the consumer load. There is practically no current flowing through the vacuum chamber (< 1%) which is electrically connected in parallel with the main current path.
2. Main contact opens:
The main contact is being opened. The current path remains closed through the vacuum chamber. No arc occurs between the main contacts.
3. Arc quenching in vacuum:
As soon as the minimum isolation distance between the two main contacts is reached, the contacts inside the vacuum chamber opens. The resulting arc is being extinguished inside the vacuum. At this point the current will be interrupted completely. The overhead line remains de-energised.
4. Overhead line disconnected and electrically isolated:
The load break switch has reached its end position. The overhead line is visibly and electrically disconnected from the source (left).
Design Type - B1:
Design B1 is a rocker type switch with a flexible conductor between the moving part of the main contact and the fixed terminal of the overhead line. Both terminals of the load break switch can be connected to rigid connections which allow for a dense placement of the switches and optimal use of space.
15kV und 25kV
Design Type - B2:
Design B2 is also a rocker type switch but does not have a flexible conductor connection. This results in a very compact and economic version of a rocker type switch. Connection to this load break switch must be done over a flexible conductor which allows the movement of the switching arm.
15kV und 25kV
Design Type - B3:
Design B3, a knife type switch, provides another option for rigid applications. This load break switch extends our product portfolio and serves as alternative to the rocker type switch (B1) in applications where a nominal current of up to 2000A is a requirement.
15kV und 25kV
