Mining Circuit Breaker
Eaton’s new W-VACiMB medium-voltage vacuum circuit breaker is designed for mining applications and engineered to provide reliable and robust circuit protec-tion in a compact package. According to the vendor, W-VACiMB breakers can protect transformers, capacitor banks, motors, busbar sections and cable. To withstand demanding environmental con-ditions in mining applications, the units are sealed from dust and contaminants and can be used in applications involving high altitude, shock, vibration and high ambient temperatures. The 17.5-kV breakers make and break power in a sealed environment with no external arc-ing, in a compact 18 x 18 x 18-in. (457-mm), 133-lb (60-kg) package. The com-pact W-VACiMB breakers serve both 50-and 60-Hz applications, and meet and exceed electrical and mechanical require-ments of E2 and M2 in accordance with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62271-100. The vacu-um interrupters are encapsulated in epoxy resin, protecting them from mechanical impact and environmental conditions such as humidity and dust. The W-VACiMB breakers use a simple modular operating mechanism that is fastened to the breaker with just three bolts, making the breakers user friendly. Because of its modular design, material selection and limited number of moving parts, Eaton says the W-VACiMB mechanism assembly requires minimal inspection during its 20,000-event service life.