What were the potential problems with Oil Circuit Breaker equipment?
• Direct Manual Operation – The speed of operation is determined by the operator. Closing the system too slowly can inhibit the fault making capability of the circuit breaker, with potentially catastrophic results. • Overstressed Switchgear – Most ‘OCB’ equipment was installed over 20 years ago. Often, electrical systems have been upgraded with little or no concern for the fault capability of the switchgear, leaving a system which could not cope with a major short circuit. • Insufficient Maintenance – Components become worn, oil in the breaker can thicken with obvious implications. • Lack of Knowledge – exists in the operation of this equipment, particularly in the case of companies who have down-sized their electrical maintenance resource. The Ellison solution involves replacement of the oil gear, with fully tested Circuit Breaker or Fuse Switch replacement units. These have been specifically designed to facilitate replacement. A comprehensive information pack is available – detailing
