Vacuum circuit breaker operation animation

Here is a simple animation of a vacuum circuit breaker operation:

Step 1: Normal Operation

The vacuum circuit breaker is in its normal state, with the contacts closed and the circuit connected.

[Image: A simple diagram of a vacuum circuit breaker with the contacts closed]

Step 2: Fault Occurs

A fault occurs in the circuit, such as a short circuit or a ground fault. The current flowing through the circuit exceeds the rated current of the breaker.

[Image: A simple diagram of a vacuum circuit breaker with a fault occurring]

Step 3: Arc Forms

When the fault occurs, an arc forms between the contacts of the breaker. The arc is a plasma arc that is created by the sudden interruption of the current flow.

[Image: A simple diagram of a vacuum circuit breaker with an arc forming]

Step 4: Arc Quenching

The vacuum circuit breaker is designed to quickly extinguish the arc by creating a vacuum environment around the contacts. The arc is quenched by the rapid collapse of the vacuum, which breaks the arc and interrupts the current flow.

[Image: A simple diagram of a vacuum circuit breaker with the arc being quenched]

Step 5: Contacts Open

After the arc is quenched, the contacts of the breaker open, disconnecting the circuit and interrupting the current flow.

[Image: A simple diagram of a vacuum circuit breaker with the contacts open]

Step 6: Reset

The vacuum circuit breaker is designed to automatically reset after the fault is cleared. The contacts close again, and the circuit is reconnected.

[Image: A simple diagram of a vacuum circuit breaker with the contacts closed]

This animation demonstrates the basic operation of a vacuum circuit breaker, including the formation of an arc, arc quenching, and contact opening.