Outdoor Air Switches

Selection and Application

8.25 thru 800 kV Max. Voltage
600 thru 5000 Amperes
Bulletin 2.3.1-1F
 Selection and Application
of Outdoor Air Switches
Introduction The important considerations are:
Outdoor air switches are an essential element of electri-
cal power transmission and distribution systems. They • Insulation level to be provided.
provide positive, visible air gap isolation of equipment • Continuous and momentary currents to be encountered.
and line sections for safe examination, maintenance, • Insulator characteristics required.
and repair. In the closed position, air switches must pro- • Electrical clearances and space limitations.
vide adequate capacity to handle all normal and abnor- • Current interrupting requirements.
mal currents which flow in the system. Finally, air
switches must provide for ease of mechanical or electri- Air switches are built in a variety of physical forms to
cal operation even under adverse conditions such as accommodate the various requirements of electrical
heavy ice coatings or corrosive atmospheres. clearances and space limitations. Also, when used as
interrupter switches, various interrupting attachments are
In order to properly maintain the integrity of an electric available. Information in this publication provides a
power system, careful attention must be given to the basis for selecting equipment best suited to solve most
selection and application of air switches. common application problems.

Insulator Cantilever Strengths

Insulator stacks for any given voltage rating are available actually experienced. Because of the inherent inertia of
with several cantilever strength ratings such as standard the bus bars, the flexibility of insulator mountings and sup-
strength, high strength and extra high strength. porting structures, some investigators have measured fault
forces, under test conditions that are as little as 35 percent
To determine which stack rating to use, it is necessary to of those calculated by the equation. It is generally agreed
calculate short-circuit forces per linear foot acting on the that for outdoor substation practice, a safe multiplier to be
conductors which the insulators are supporting. The used with the equation results is somewhere between 0.5
and 0.6. It is our standard practice to use 0.6 multiplier
NEMA formula for calculating this force is as follows:
unless otherwise specified by the user. Further, it is our
policy to limit the actual forces on insulators to a maximum
F = Force in pounds per linear of 60 percent of their published cantilever rating.
foot on bus:
2.3 x 5.4 x I2 I = 3-phase RMS asymmetrical For the example given, then, a more realistic fault force is:
F = _____________
S x 107 current (or 1.6 x RMS sym- 24# x 0.6 or 14.4 pounds per foot. As noted in the bus
metrical current). arrangement, this force results in a maximum cantilever
S = Conductor phase spacing in load of 576# at the insulator position which supports the
inches. longest bus section. At the 115-kV rating, the published
cantilever load for a standard strength post-type insulator
Example:
stack is 1700 pounds. When used at 60 percent of rating,
For a 115 -kV station: Assume asymmetrical current is the unit would have a safe allowable strength of 1020
40,000 amperes and phase spacing is 84” pounds which is quite adequate to satisfy the maximum
loading required in the example.

It should be noted that short-circuit loadings on switch insu-

lators are usually less than the loadings on adjacent bus
insulators, since the conductors terminate on the switch
insulators and only 50% of the span applies.

Notes:
1. The above applies to both upright and inverted mounted
arrangements using published cantilever values. However,
Fig. 1 for insulators mounted horizontally, it is standard practice to
use 40% of the upright published cantilever rating for short
2.3 x 5.4 x 40,000 x 40,000 circuit forces.
Then Force = ________________________ = 24 lbs. per 2. If the short circuit current (RMS asymmetrical) is not
84 x 10,000,000 linear foot. known, then the momentary rating of the switches, or the
rating of the breakers can be used, whichever is smaller.
The theoretical equation, as presented, has been found to Switch momentary ratings are 3-phase RMS asymmetrical.
produce fault forces on busses that are in excess of those Breaker ratings are 3-phase RMS symmetrical, which must
be multiplied by 1.6 to convert to RMS asymmetrical.
2
 Selection on Basis of Insulation Level
Table 1 - Insulators
Insulator Technical Available Insulators 1
Ratings, kV Reference Number Post
Post Bolt Circle
Maximum Standard High
Nominal BIL
Design Strength Strength 3” 5”
Notes:
8.25 7.20 95 202 222 x x
15.50 14.40 110 205 225 x x 1 For complete mechanical and electrical
25.80 23.00 150 208 227 x x characteristics, contact the nearest
38.00 34.50 200 210 231 x x sales representative.
48.30 46.00 250 214 267 x x 2 Technical Reference numbers not
72.50 69.00 350 216 278 x x assigned by NEMA.
121 115 550 286 287 x x
145 138 650 288 289 x x 3 Not available.
169 161 750 291 295 x x
242 230 900 304 308 x
3
242 230 1050 312 316 x
362 345 1300 324 368 3 3
550 500 1550
550 500 1800 2 2 3 3
800 765 2050

Switch open gap dimensions are selected to pro-

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
vide voltage withstand characteristics that exceed
line-to-ground voltage withstand characteristics in
SELECTION AND APPLICATION
order to protect personnel and equipment.
Insulator Cantilever Strengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Insulators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Switch Open Gaps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Table 2 - Switch Open Gaps
Ground Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Phase Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Min. (inches)
Ratings, kV
Standard Switch Ratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Metal-to Metal
Switch Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Double
Maximum Single
Nominal BIL Break
Design Break
INTERRUPTER ATTACHMENTS One End

Arcing Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 8.25 7.2 95 7 NA

Arc Restrictor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 15.50 14.4 110 10 NA
Vacuum Interrupter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 25.80 23.0 150 12 NA
Summary of Devices and Ratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 38.00 34.5 200 18 12
48.30 46.0 250 22 15
SWITCH OPERATING MECHANISMS 72.50 69.0 350 32 22
MO-10 Motor Operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12 121 115 550 50 32
Swing Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 145 138 650 60 38
Worm Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 169 161 750 68 44
Three-Pole Torsional Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 242 230 900 84 50
242 230 1050 104 57
ACCESSORIES 362 345 1050 104 57
Grounding Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 362 345 1300 120 66
Cable Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Auxiliary Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Above 362 kV maximum design, switch open gap
dimensions are dictated by expected maximum
TYPICAL INSTALLATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 switching surge voltage levels.

3
Selection on Basis of Insulation Level
Table 3 - Ground Clearance
Clearance Between Clearance Between
Clearance to Ground Overhead Conductors & Overhead Conductors &
Ratings, kV
for Rigid Parts Ground for Personnel Safety Roadways Inside Enclosure
Maximum Recommended Minimum Recommended Minimum Recommended Minimum
Nominal BIL Feet Feet Feet
Design Inches Inches Feet

8.25 7.2 95 71/2 6 10 8 21 20

15.5 14.4 110 10 7 10 9 21 20
25.8 23 150 12 10 10 10 21 20
38 34.5 200 15 13 11 10 22 22
48.3 46 250 18 17 11 10 22 22
72.5 69 350 29 25 12 11 23 23
121 115 550 47 42 13 12 24 24
145 138 650 521/2 50 14 13 25 25
169 161 750 611/2 58 14 14 25 25
242 230 900 76 71 15 15 26 26
242 230 1050 901/2 83 16 16 28 28
362 345 1050 901/2 83 16 16 28 28
362 345 1300 105 104 18 18 30 30
Above 362 kV maximum design, electrical clearances are dictated by expected maximum switching surge voltage levels.

Table 4 - Phase Spacing

Recommended CL to CL Inches
Live Vertical Break
Vertical Break Double
Ratings, kV Parts Disc. Switch Single Center
Disc. Switch Side Break
Minimum with GRD Switch Side Side Horn
Disc.
Metal- Break Break Gap
2500 & 600 thru 2500 & Switch
Maximum 600 thru Disc. Disc. Switch
Nominal BIL To-Metal 3000 Amp
2000 Amp 3000 Amp & Bus
Design 3000 Amp 30˚ Rise Switch Switch
4000 Amp 3” B.C. 5” B.C. Supports

8.25 7.2 95 7 18 36 36 1 40 1 18 30 30 36 2
15.5 14.4 110 12 24 36 38 1 40 1 24 30 30 36 2
25.8 23 150 15 30 39 42 1 44 1 30 36 36 48
38 34.5 200 18 36 42 46 1 48 1 36 48 48 60
48.3 46 250 21 48 48 50 1 52 1 48 60 60 72
72.5 69 350 31 60 60 60 1 60 1 60 72 72 84
121 115 550 53 84 84 84 84 84 108 108 120
145 138 650 63 96 96 96 96 96 132 132 144
169 161 750 72 108 108 108 108 108 156 156 168
242 230 900 89 132 132 132 132 132 192 192 192
242 230 1050 105 156 156 156 156 156 216 216 216
362 345 1050 105 156 156 156 156 156 216 216 216
362 345 1300 119 174 174 174 174 174 240 240 240
Above 362 kV maximum design, phase spacing is dictated by expected minimum switching surge voltage levels.
Notes:

1 Minimum dimension.
2 Use Disc. switch dimension if greater.

4
Selection on Basis of Ratings

Table 5 - Standard Ratings for Outdoor Air Switches

Current Rating-Amperes 600 1200 1600 2000 2000 2500 2500 3000 3000 3000 4000 4000 4000

Momentary Rating-kA 40 61 70 70 80 100 70 80 100 70 80 100 120 70 80 100 120

Max Nominal
BIL
kV kV
1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 6, 8 1, 8 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 5 1, 6 1 1
8.25 7.2 95 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 6, 8 6, 8

1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 6, 8 1, 8 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 5 1, 6 1 1
15.5 14.4 110 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 6, 8 6, 8

1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 6, 8 1, 8 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 5 1, 6 1 1
25.8 23 150 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 6, 8 6, 8

1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 4, 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 6, 8 1, 8 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 5 1, 6 1 1
38 34.5 200 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 5, 6, 8 6, 8 6, 8

1, 4, 5, 1, 4, 5, 1, 4, 5, 1, 5, 6, 1, 5, 8 1, 6, 8 1, 8 1, 5, 1, 5, 8 1, 5 1, 6 1 1
48.3 46 250
6, 8,10 6, 8,10 6, 8,10 8, 10 6, 8

1, 4, 1, 2, 4, 1, 2, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 1, 6, 8 1, 8 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 1, 2, 5 1, 6 1 1
72.5 69 350 5, 6, 8, 5, 6, 4, 5, 6, 6, 8, 10 5, 8 6, 8 5, 8
10 8,10 8,10

1, 2, 4, 1, 2, 4, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 1, 7, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
121 115 550 1, 4, 5, 5, 6, 8, 5, 6, 8, 6, 8, 9, 7, 8, 9 8, 9 8, 9 6, 8, 9 7, 9 7, 9
6, 8, 10 9, 10 9, 10 10

1, 2, 4, 1, 2, 4, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 1, 7, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
1, 5, 6,
145 138 650 5, 6, 8, 5, 6, 8, 6, 8, 9, 7, 8, 9 8, 9 8, 9 6, 8, 9 7, 9 7, 9
8, 10 9, 10 9, 10 10

1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 1, 7, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
1, 5, 6, 6, 8, 9, 6, 8, 9, 6, 8, 9, 7, 8, 9 8, 9 8, 9 6, 8, 9 7, 8, 9 7, 8, 9
169 161 750
8, 10 10 10 10

1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 1, 7, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
242 230 900 5, 6 6, 8 6, 8 6, 8, 9 7, 8, 9 8, 9 8, 9 6, 8, 9 7, 8, 9 7, 8, 9

1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 6, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
242 230 1050 5, 6 5, 6 5, 6 6, 9 7, 9 6, 9 7, 9 7, 9

1, 2 1, 2, 7 1, 2, 1, 2 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
362 345 1050
7, 9 7, 9 7, 9 7, 9 7, 9

1, 2 1, 2, 7 1, 2, 1, 2 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 2, 5, 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
362 345 1300
7, 9 7, 9 7, 9 7, 9 7, 9

2 2, 7 1, 2, 1, 2 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9
550 500 1550
7, 9 7, 9 7, 9 7, 9 7, 9

550 500 1800 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9

800 765 2050 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9 1, 7, 9

Numbers in Blue indicate Pascor Atlantic switch types - See flap for identification.

For applications requiring 5000 amp switches, consult local sales representative for types and ratings available.

5
Switch Types

VERTICAL - TTR6 1 DOUBLE - TTT7 2

SIDE - A7 4 CENTER - DR7 & DR9 5

GROUNDING - AG7 6 GROUNDING - AG8 7

VERTICAL - TTR8 8 VERTICAL REACH - VT2 9 CENTER BREAK - DRV 10

Switch Types

VERTICAL - TTR6 1 DOUBLE - TTT7 2

SIDE - A7 4 CENTER - DR7 & DR9 5

GROUNDING - AG7 6 GROUNDING - AG8 7

VERTICAL - TTR8 8 VERTICAL REACH - VT2 9 CENTER BREAK - DRV 10

Selection on Basis of Switch Types

Table 6 - Switch Application

Switch
Ratings Available Mounting
Position
ANSI Switch Interrupting Attachments

inverted
Voltage, kV

Vertical
Continuous

Upright
Designation Type
Maximum Current,
Nominal Amperes Type Ratings, kV
Design
Arcing Horns 8.25 - 242
8.25 - 169 7.2 - 161 600 - 4000 ✔ ✔
Arcing Horns 362 - 800 ✔
TTR6 242 & 362 230 & 345 1200 - 4000 ✔ ✔ ✔
Arc Restrictor 8.25 - 145
1 ✔
550 & 800 500 & 765 2000 - 4000 Vacuum Interrupters 38 - 242
Arcing Horns 7.25 - 169 ✔ ✔
TTT7 Arcing Horns 242 - 362 ✔
72.5 - 550 69 - 500 1200 - 3000
2 Arc Restrictor 72.5 - 145 ✔ ✔
Arcing Horns 8.25 - 145 ✔ ✔
A7
8.25 - 145 7.2 - 138 600 - 1600 Arc Resistor 8.25 - 145 ✔ ✔ ✔
4 Vacuum Interrupters 38 - 72.5 ✔ ✔ ✔
DR7 Arcing Horns 8.25 - 242 ✔ ✔ ✔
8.25 - 242 7.2 - 230 600 - 3000
DR9
5 362 345 3000 Arcing Horns 362 ✔

AG7 8.25 - 242 7.2 - 230

40, 61, 70 None ✔ ✔ ✔
kA Momentary
6
AG8 121- 242 115 - 230 100, 120 kA
Momentary
None ✔ ✔
7 362 - 800 345 - 765

Arcing Horn 8.25 - 242 ✔ ✔ ✔

TTR8
8.25 - 242 7.2 - 230 600 - 3000 Arc Restrictor 8.25 - 145 ✔ ✔ ✔
8 Vacuum Interrupters 8.25 - 230 ✔

VT2 121 - 169 115 - 161 1200 - 4000

None ✔
9 242 - 800 230 - 765 2000 - 4000

DRV Arcing Horns 48.3 - 169 ✔ ✔

25.8 - 169 23 - 161 600 - 2000
10 Arc Restrictor 48.3 - 145 ✔ ✔

Numbers in Blue indicate Pascor Atlantic switch types - See flap for identification.

6
 ANSI Switch Recommended Manual Operator
Applications
Designation Type
Ratings Attachments and Current Ratings Type

8.25-72.5 w/o Interrupter - Vertical Mounted 600 - 2000 A I Most Widely Used Substation Switch,
8.25-72.5 w/ Interrupter - Vertical Mounted 600 - 2000 A I Providing Maximum Visibility of Switch
TTR6 w/ or w/o Inter. - Upright or Inverted Mt’d 2500-4000 A Position. Uses Minimum Phase Spacing.
8.25-72.5 I
• Breaker Disconnect
8.25-800 w/ or w/o Inter. - Vert. Uprt., Inv. Mt’d 2500 - 4000 A III
1 • Breaker By-Pass
121-169 w/o Interrupter 600 - 2000 A I • Transformer Disconnect
121-169 w/ Interrupter 600 - 2000 A III • Bus Sectionalizing
242-800 w/ or w/o Interrupter 1200 - 2000A III • Line Disconnect
Provides Low Profile. Minimizes Overhead
Clearance Problems. Can Be Applied on
Minimum Phase Spacing.
TTT7 72.5-550 w/ or w/o Interrupter 1200 - 3000A III • Breaker Disconnect
• Breaker By-Pass
2 • Transformer Disconnect
• Bus Sectionalizing
• Line Disconnect
Provides Low Profile. Minimizes Overhead
8.25-72.5 w/ or wo/ Horns - Vertical Mounted 600-1600 A I Clearance Problems. May Require Greater
8.25-72.5 w/ or w/o Horns - Upright or Inverted Mt’d 600-1600 A I Phase Spacing.
• Breaker Disconnect
A7 121-145 w/ or wo/ Horns 600-1600 A II
• Breaker By-Pass
8.25-72.5 w/ Arc Restrictor or Vacuum Interrupters 600-1600 A II
4 • Transformer Disconnect
121-145 w/ Arc Restrictor 600-1600 A III • Bus Sectionalizing
• Line Disconnect
8.25-72.5 3” B.C. 600-1200 A - Vertical Mounted I Provides Low Profile. Minimizes Overhead
8.25-72.5 3” B.C. 600-1200 A - Upright or Inverted Mounted I Clearance Problems. But Always Requires
121-145 3” B.C. 600-1200 A - Vertical Up. or Inverted Mt’d. II Greater Phase Spacing.
DR7 • Breaker Disconnect
72.5-169 5” B.C. 600-1200 A - Vertical Up. or Inverted Mt’d. II
DR9 72.5-121 5” B.C. 1600-3000 A - Vertical [Link] Inverted Mt’d. II
• Breaker By-Pass
• Transformer Disconnect
5 145-169 5” B.C. 1600-3000 A - Upright or Inverted Mt’d. III • Bus Sectionalizing
242-362 5” B.C. 1200-3000 A - Upright or Inverted Mt’d. III • Line Disconnect
8.25 40, 61, 70, & 80 kA Momentary I
AG7
121-169 40, 61, 70, & 80 kA Momentary II
6 Grounding Live Parts of Substation
242 40, 61, 70, & 80 kA Momentary III Equipment and Conductors for Safety
AG8 121-362 70, 80, 100, & 120 kA Momentary II During Maintenance.
550-800 70, 80, 100, & 120 kA Momentary III
7
Most Widely Used Substation Switch,
Providing Maximum Visibility of Switch
8.25-72.5 w/ or w/o Interrupter - Uprt., Vert., Inv. Mt’d 600 - 2000 A I Position. Uses Minimum Phase Spacing.
TTR8 8.25-72.5 w/ or w/o Interrupter - Uprt., Vert., Inv. Mt’d 2500 - 3000 A II • Breaker Disconnect
w/ or w/o Interrupter - Uprt., Vert., Inv. Mt’d 600 - 3000 A • Breaker By-Pass
8 121-242 II
• Transformer Disconnect
121-242 w/ Interrupter - Upright Mounted 600 - 3000 A III • Bus Sectionalizing
• Line Disconnect
Reduces Substation Land Requirements.
Ideal for Connections Between High and
121-169 1200 - 4000 A III Low Busses.
• Breaker Isolating
VT2 • Bus Sectionalizing
• Line Disconnect
9 242-800 2000 - 4000 A III • Breaker By-Pass
• Transformer Disconnect
Less Supporting Structure is Required in
Providing Low Profile Substations. Minimum
Overhead Clearance Problems, But Always
DRV Requires Greater Phase Spacing.
• Breaker Disconnect
10 23-161 600 - 2000 A I • Breaker By-Pass
• Bus Sectionalizing
• Line Disconnect
• Transformer Disconnect

MANUAL OPERATOR TYPE I - 3 ft. Swing Handle II - 5 ft. Swing Handle III - Gear Mechanism
Interrupting Attachments

Arcing Horn

The Arcing Horn is the simplest form of inter-

rupting attachment. It consists of a stationary
horn attached to the jaw of the switch and a
movable horn attached to the blade. The pur-
pose of the arcing horn is to avoid arcing at the
main contacts of the switch during current inter-
ruption. Arc extinction is achieved by stretching
out the arc.

Arcing horns are used to make or break:

• Magnetizing current of small transformers
• Charging current of substation buses or
short Transmission lines

The arcing horn has been designed to require

only minimum contact pressure in order to
maintain minimum switch operating effort.

Arc reach which is the perpendicular distance

between the peak of an arc and a straight line
drawn between the two parting contacts (Fig. 2) Fig. 2 - Arcing horn arc reach
should be considered for phase spacing and
clearance to ground. It may be necessary to
keep the arc reach to a minimum of 2 feet,
depending upon location of equipment and rec-
ognizing environment and personnel considera-
tions.

In order to reduce the possibility of phase-to-

phase faults, horn-gap switches are mounted
on wider phase spacing than used for discon-
nect switches.

For phase spacing of horn-gap switches and

arc reach for various currents and voltages, see
Table 7.

Note: 1.
Use Disc. Switch Dimension (Table 4) if greater.

Fig. 3 - Arc reach for small currents at

various line voltages.

8
 Arc Restrictor

The Arc Restrictor is an

extremely effective means
of interrupting transformer
magnetizing and line
charging currents. The Arc
Restrictor consists of a
tapered rod arranged with
a latch so that it is subject-
ed to a large deflection
while the switch is opened.

At a point in the opening

operation when sufficient
air gap has been estab-
lished at the main contacts,
the horn is release from the
latch and travels at a very
high speed (about 90 feet
per second) whipping out
the arc.

The need for very high contact speed comes about from the race between the rise of restored
voltage across the contacts and the buildup of dielectric strength after current zero. If sufficient
speed is attained, arcing will persist only until the first time the current in its 0-cycle excursions
passes trough zero. Thereafter, the moving Arc Restrictor contact builds up a gap of un-ionized
air establishing a dielectric strength that will exceed the rise in recovery voltage so that arcing
cannot recur.

Because of the rapid arc extinction, switches (except for type “DRV”) equipped with Arc
Restrictors can be mounted on disconnect phase spacing rather than horn gap phase spacing.

Arc Restrictors can be used on vertical-break or on single or double side-break switches. In the
case of the double side-break switch, two shorter rods are used, one for each separable contact.

9
Interrupting Attachments
Vacuum Interrupter

Full Load Vacuum Interrupters

The Turner TECO Rupter is a vacuum

circuit interrupter that is offered in three
(3) basic configurations and can be
attached to vertical break and side
break switch designs. The configura-
tions are as follows:

A) Loop or parallel break - Normally

these are single vacuum contact
devices which can interrupt up to 2000
Amps, up to 2230 kV, under paralleled
conditions.

B) Line/bus charging/line sectionalizing

interruption/transformer magnetizing
current interruption: A full voltage mul-
tiple stack interrupter may be utilized
from 15 kV through 230 kV for interrup-
tion of line of bus charging currents and transformer magnetizing currents up to a value of 70 Amps at 0% power factor,
capacitive or inductive.

C) Load interruption - A full voltage multiple stack interrupter may be applied from 15 kV through 230 kV for interruption of
actual load current at 70% power factor.

The interrupter carries load current only during the interruption. There is no external arcing, thus permitting the switch to
be mounted on disconnect phase spacing.

The vacuum interrupter is available for use with the type TTR8 and TTR6 vertical break switch, 38 through 242 kV and the
type A7 single side break, 38 kV through 72.5 kV.

Table 7

10
 Switch Operating Mechanisms - Electrical
MO-10 Motor Operator

The MO-10 is an aluminum-housed, partial revolution motor opera-

tor for actuating switches with either direct or offset torsional con-
trols.

Typical applications include remote operation of air-break discon-

nect switches, operation through supervisory control, or in conjunc-
tion with automatic transfer or sectionalizing schemes, or in combi-
nation with high-speed grounding switches for automatic isolation
of transformer faults.

The MO-10 is available with a wide range of torques and operating

speeds as shown in Table 9, page 12. The voltage supply may be
dc (24, 48, 125, 250) or ac (115, 230). Because of this range of
operating torque, the MO-10 may be used with Pascor Atlantic
switches rated 8.25 thru 800 kV as indicated on page 12.

Coupling
The MO-10 motor operator is connected to the switch torsional Motor Operator
control through a coupling assembly. The assembly’s two main
components are the PIPE COUPLING which is attached to the
vertical operating pipe and the FIXED COUPLING which is driven
by the enclosed gear mechanism.

Manual Operation
The MO-10 may be manually-operated by inserting the handle
through the access port of the gear cover. To insert the handle,
the Manual Operation Disconnect Lever must be moved to the
side which electrically disconnects both motor and control circuits.
Manual operation turns the same gearing as motor operation, thus
the auxiliary switches provide the same indication for both manual
and motor operation. Manual operation is through a 62: 1 worm
gear on 375: 1 and 594: 1 motor operators and through a 80: 1
worm gear on 760: 1 motor operations.
View of coupling and position indicators.
Auxiliary Switches
The standard MO-10 has 16 auxiliary switch circuits. Of these 13
are available for customer’s use. Optional 28 circuit auxiliary
switch is also available.

Motors and Gear Drives

The MO-10 motor operator is available in a variety of combinations
of motors and connecting gear drive ratios, see Table 9 & 10. The
standard dc motor unit is rated 3/4 hp, 1750 rpm and includes a
375:1 gear drive. For AC applications the motor circuit utilizes a
rectifier to convert the AC input to DC. This is done to take advan-
tage of the dynamic braking of the DC motor circuit. Other combi-
nations of motor ratings and gear drive assemblies are tailored to
satisfy specific output torque and/or speed requirements.
Manual Operation
All motors have high starting and running torques at minimum
ANSI voltages, are sealed against moisture, dust and fumes and
require no lubrication. The motor circuits are protected by Tri-onic
tm fuses which permit blocked armature current flow to approxi-
mately 15 seconds. 11
Switch Operating Mechanisms - Electrical
MO-10 Motor Operator

Table 8 - Motor Mechanism Selection

Switch 15 - 345 kV Motor Mechanism Item

8.25 - 169 kV
(except 1000 A TTR6 Vertical) 1,4

15 - 345 kV 4000 A TTR6

Vertical Break 2

242 - 362 kV 2

550 kV Vertical Break 3

Table 9 - Technical Data, Mechanism

Oper. Time
Motor Motor 190º Travel Vertical Operating Pipe
Torque Gear Seconds
Mechanism
In-lb Ratio Normal Service
Item HP RPM Conditions SPS Min. Feet Max.
2 30
4 22,000 3/4 3450 375:1 3.4
21/2 60
2 30
5 30,000 3/4 3450 594:1 5.4
21/2 60
2 30
1 22,000 3/4 1750 375:1 6.8
21/2 60
2 30
2 30,000 3/4 1750 594:1 10.8
21/2 60

3 34,000 3/4 1750 760:1 13.7 3 x HVY 20

12
Table 10 - Technical Data, Motor
Operating Current, Amperes Chase-Shawmut
Rated
Rated Voltage Voltage Rated HP Tri-onic Fuse
Speed Locked Cat. No.
Range Rated RPM
Armature
24 18-26 3/4 1750 32 200 40
3/4 3450 32 200 40
48 36-52 3/4 1750 15.8 86 TR-20R
3/4 3450 15.8 124 TR-20R
DC 3/4 1750 6 35 TR-8R
125 90-130
3/4 3450 6 47 TR-10R
3/4 1750 3 19 TR-4R
250 180-260 TR-4R
3/4 3450 3 19

Switch Operating Mechanisms-Manual

Description
A switch operating mechanism is a means for opening or closing a group-operated air switch and
occasionally a single-pole switch, from a fixed position, usually at ground level. Forces are transmitted
from the operator’s position to the moving parts of the switch.

The two most commonly used operators are torsional (swing handle) and worm gear types.

Swing Handle
The swing handle is a manually operated torsional mechanism which is hinged to the vertical operat-
ing pipe. Two lengths of handles are available. A three-foot handle and five-foot telescopic handle.
The swing handle is actuated by raising the handle to a position parallel to the ground followed by a
direct horizontal lever action applied to rotate the vertical operating pipe. The three-foot handle is
used principally for switches rated 8.25 thru 72.5 kV. The five-foot handle is used at lower voltages
where additional operating effort is required by accessories or for higher voltage switches 121 thru 169
kV. For more detailed information, refer to page 7 under recommended manual operator.

13
Switch Operating Mechanisms-Manual
Worm Gear

The worm gear is a manually-operated torsional mechanism. It is rec-

ommended for operating three-pole switches requiring increased oper-
ating effort depending on switch type, ratings and interrupting attach-
ments.

For recommended worm gear mechanism application, refer to page 7,

under recommended manual operators.

The worm gear is a corrosion free mechanism consisting of a 15 inch

crank handle and weather sealed gear box. It is available in gear
ratios of 30:1, 46:1, 62:1, 80:1 and is especially designed to prevent
backlash.

If desired, especially for applications outside of fenced-in areas, a van-

dal-proof worm gear mechanism can be supplied.

Three-Pole Torsional Control

OPERATING MECHANISM
A three-pole torsional control can be
activated by a simple swing handle as
shown (Fig. 10), a worm gear or a
motor operator depending on torque
required.

OFFSET BEARING
Same as switch bearing with two sets
of stainless steel ball bearings, weath-
er-sealed and maintenance free.

MULTI-ANGLE CRANK
Switch and controls can be relocated
to different structures and different off-
set angle with no change in parts.

ADJUSTABLE CLEVIS
Provides vernier adjustment of inter-
phase rods and offset rod lengths (1/2
turn of clevis equals 1/16 inch) to per-
mit operation alignment between phas-
es. (Total adjustment per clevis equals
± 1 inch.)

14
Accessories
CABLE GUIDES (Outriggers) AUXILIARY SWITCH
The frequent need for
remote switch posi-
tion indication, electri-
cal interlocking of
main and ground
switches with each
other or with breaker
controls and other
operating sequences, requires the application of auxiliary switch
units to switch operating mechanisms. These separately mounted
Cable guides or outriggers are fabricated of either extruded T-sec- devices are available in multi-stage circuits from 2 thru 16, in
tions (shown) or tubular bus. Both versions are of high conductivity multiples of two stages. Auxiliary switches are totally enclosed in
aluminum and bolt directly to the switch terminal pad, on either the weatherproof housings which provide entrance openings for ter-
hinge or jaw end. The outer end of the outrigger has a NEMA stan- mination of conduit.
dard four-hold terminal drilling. Cable guides are used to support
the cables well away from the switch base and grounded parts.
They are designed for a 100-pound maximum downward force at HIGH-SPEED GROUNDING SWITCHES
their outer end. Standard lengths are 2, 3 and 4 feet from the insu- (Automatic)
lator center-line to the outer end of the cable guide.
Automatic high-speed ground-
ing switches provide the most
economical means of trans-
GROUNDING SWITCHES former protection. Their appli-
cation has become well
accepted as the result of the
excellent reliability of modern
transformers, extremely fast
relay and circuit breaker oper-
ation, and last, but not least,
dependable design.

The purpose of a high-speed

Type HSG
grounding switch (HSG) is to
20 and 40 kA close-in rating
3.3 cycles at 15.5 kV closing create a deliberate fault upon a
time 30.0 cycles at 362 kV signal from the protective
relays of the faulted trans-
Type AG7 Type AG8 former. Fault current relays trip the remote circuit breaker.
8.25 thru 242 kV 121 thru 242 kV
40, 60, 70 kA momentary 100 and 120 kA momentary
With the high-speed components used in the scheme, a trans-
360-800 kV, former is de-energized with a few cycles after it develops an
70, 80 100, 120 kA momentary
internal fault, thus limiting costly transformer damage.

AG7 and AG8 grounding switches can be applied on either the Since the HSG is a fault initiating device, it is normally supplied for
hinge or jaw end of most switches for grounding lines on equip- single-pole operation, however, 3-pole group operation can also
ment during inspection, maintenance, or repair. The 3-pole ground- be supplied.
ing switch is frequently interlocked with the main switch on which
it is mounted, to prevent both switches from being closed at the It can be reset with either a hook stick or an operating handle at
same time. Grounding switches can also be supplied with their ground level.
own separate base and insulator stack rather than attached to a
disconnect switch. The HSG switch can be supplied in these forms:

Ground switches must be designed, built and tested to withstand all • On any non-rotating insulator of any switch.
the rigors of associated equipment, and high momentary ratings,
ice-breaking ability, and wind-loading resistance. • As a complete unit with its own base and insulator.
15
 Pascor Atlantic
Air Switch Division • State Route 42
254 Industry Drive • Bland, VA 24315-9709
Pascor Atlantic
Phone: 276-688-3328 • Fax: 276-688-2228 or 2229
File #4805 [Link] “Good People Delivering Better Switches”
This bulletin describes our standard product and does not show variations in design which may be available. If additional details are required, contact your local
Pascor Atlantic representative. Pascor Atlantic reserves the right to make changes or improvements to the product shown in this bulletin without notice or obligation.

“Pascor Atlantic . . .
at the end of the day,
we still look good!”