Calculation of Thermobimetallic Releases of Circuit Breakers with Indirect Heating for Currents from 63 to 250 A

Resumo

Thermal releases based on thermobimetallic elements (TBEs) form the current-dependent part of the protective characteristic of a circuit breaker. The design of a mechanism of free releasing and the characteristics of a thermobimetallic element are analyzed. The operating condition for the thermal release is formulated, which is based on comparison of the mechanical characteristics of an actuator and thermomechanical characteristic of TBEs. Experimental studies of thermobimetallic releases, which are analogues of the breakers to be developed, were carried out. Taking into account the results of these experiments, a design procedure of thermobimetallic release was developed, which is applicable for all types of TBE heating (direct, indirect, combined). The procedure makes it possible to determine the geometrical dimensions of a TBE and the methods of its heating, as well as the operating temperature of release depending on the rated current of the breaker. It has been noted that, to provide the possibility of operating current adjusting, as well as for reliable operation of circuit breakers under vibration and shock conditions, it is necessary to provide for the free running of TBE during design. Comparison of design and experimental data showed the accuracy of procedure, which is acceptable for practical calculations.