vakuumikytkentöihin

Vakuumikytkentöihin, known in English as vacuum switching, refers to the process of interrupting or establishing an electrical circuit using a vacuum as the insulating medium. This technique is employed in high-voltage switchgear, such as circuit breakers, to extinguish the arc that forms when a circuit is opened. The vacuum acts as an excellent insulator, quickly dissipating the arc energy and preventing re-establishment of the current flow.

Vacuum interrupters are commonly used in medium-voltage applications, typically ranging from 1 kV to 38 kV. They offer several advantages over other switching technologies, including a long operational life, minimal maintenance requirements, and a compact design. The sealed nature of the vacuum interrupter prevents contamination from the environment, ensuring reliable performance over many switching cycles.

The operation of a vacuum switch involves a pair of contacts housed within a sealed vacuum interrupter bottle. When the circuit needs to be opened, these contacts separate. The electric arc that forms between them is drawn out and extinguished by the vacuum. The vacuum's ability to absorb the ionized gas and rapidly increase its dielectric strength is crucial for this process. Re-energizing the circuit involves closing these contacts.

Vakuumikytkentöihin technology has become a dominant force in medium-voltage switchgear due to its efficiency, reliability, and environmental benefits, such as the absence of ozone-producing materials. They are found in various industrial, commercial, and utility applications.