Abstract:
Current-limiting circuit breaker with arc-extinguishing means including a closed arc initiation chamber and a communicating arc-extinguishing chamber, the sidewalls of the chambers each being formed as a molded insert of high dielectric gas-generating material, the sidewalls of the arc-extinguishing chamber including means forming a controlled constriction through which the arc must pass, and diverging arc runners together with strips of material extending between the outer extremities of the arc runners, said strips comprising a material which is normally nonconductive but which becomes conductive when heated by the effect of an electric arc.
Abstract:
An electric circuit interrupter including arc establishing and interrupting means having an arc-gas venting portion and an arcgas filter and muffle portion in juxtaposed relation to the arcgas venting portion, combined with a sleeve of elastomeric material surrounding the muffle portion and at least a portion of the arc establishing and interrupting means, the sleeve including a circumferentially extending inwardly directed rib positioned between the muffle portion and the arc establishing and interrupting means, the sleeve serving to prevent the flow of gases other than in the intended path of flow through the assembly. In accordance with another aspect, a plurality of arc generating and interrupting assemblies are positioned side by side to provide a multipole device, and an integral metallic, generally boxlike, enclosure is provided surrounding all of the interrupting assemblies and having an end wall with openings therein permitting the flow of arc gases therethrough, the metallic enclosure permitting the device to withstand extremely high pressures during interruption.