SWITCHGEAR AND

EVOLUTION OF CIRCUIT
BREAKER
LAKSHYA SHARMA [2020BELE111]
HARSHIT SINGH [2020BELE021]
ANKUR PANDEY [2020BELE057]
KAUSHINDER [2020BELE099]
SWITCHGEAR:-
 Switchgear is also a combination of switching devices such as :-
 protection devices
 switching devices
 Control and sensing devices
 The apparatus used for switching, controlling & protecting the electrical circuits & equipments
are known as switchgear.
 The switchgear equipments is essentially used with switching & interrupting currents either
under normal or abnormal operating condition.
SWITCHGEAR:-

 It consists of devices such as switches, fuses, circuit breakers, relays etc.

 Basically every electric circuit needs a switching device & a protecting device.
 All equipment associated with the fault clearing process are converted by the term 'switchgear'.
 Switchgear is an essential part of a power system & also that of an electric circuit.
 Switchgears are used in Generation, Transmission and Distribution Systems, whereas, Control
Gears are used in Consumer Circuits.
Switchgear Equipment
Protection devices:-

• Circuit breakers(MCB)
• MCCB(Moulded case circuit breaker)
• Relays
• Fuse
Switching devices:-
• Switches
• isolator
• Contactors
Control and sensing devices:-
• CT(current transformer)
• Ammeter
• Energy meter
EVOLUTION OFCIRCUIT BREAKER
 Early Circuit Protection: In the late 19th century, circuit protection was rudimentary, mainly
consisting of fuses, which were simple devices that melted or "blew" when excessive current passed
through them, interrupting the circuit.
 Electro-Magnetic Circuit Breakers: In the early 20th century, the first electromagnetic circuit
breakers were developed. These devices used an electromagnet to trip a switch when excessive
current flowed.
 Thermal-Magnetic Circuit Breakers: In the mid-20th century, thermal-magnetic circuit breakers
were introduced. These combined the principles of both thermal and electromagnetic protection.
They responded to both overcurrent (magnetic) and overheating (thermal) conditions.
 Solid-State Circuit Breakers: With advancements in electronics and semiconductor technology,
solid-state or digital circuit breakers have emerged. These breakers use electronic components to
detect and respond to overcurrent and short-circuit conditions.
 Smart Circuit Breakers: These incorporate connectivity and automation features, allowing users to
monitor and control their electrical systems remotely through smartphones or other devices. They
can provide real-time data on energy usage and enable more efficient power management.
EVOLUTION OFCIRCUIT BREAKER
 Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): These
specialized circuit breakers were developed to enhance electrical safety. AFCIs detect and respond to
arc faults, which can lead to fires, while GFCIs protect against ground faults, preventing electric
shocks in wet or potentially hazardous areas.
 Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) and Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs): These types
of circuit breakers are commonly used in residential and industrial applications, respectively. MCBs
are designed for lower current ratings, while MCCBs handle higher currents.
 Environmental Considerations: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on making
circuit breakers more environmentally friendly. Some circuit breakers use alternative insulating
materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and efforts are being made to improve recyclability
and reduce the environmental impact of circuit breaker disposal.
 The evolution of circuit breakers has led to increased safety, reliability, and functionality in electrical
systems. Today, circuit breakers come in various forms and serve a wide range of applications, from
protecting homes and industrial facilities to enabling advanced energy management and automation
in smart grids and buildings
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