An electrical protection device that utilizes air, at atmospheric pressure, as the medium to extinguish an arc formed during circuit interruption. The basic principle involves forcing the arc into an arc chute, a series of metal plates designed to cool and split the arc, effectively increasing its length and resistance until it is quenched. This type of breaker is commonly found in medium-voltage and high-voltage systems where interrupting high fault currents is essential.
These devices offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for protecting electrical equipment and personnel from overcurrent conditions and short circuits. Their use is particularly beneficial in industrial settings, power distribution networks, and large commercial buildings. Historically, they represented a significant advancement over oil-filled breakers by eliminating the risk of oil fires and reducing maintenance requirements. Their development contributed significantly to the safety and reliability of electrical power systems.
