Life extension for electrical power distribution systems using vacuum technology

It is noted that, in industrial and utility electric systems built in the 1940s and 1950s, many components are at or beyond their expected service life. This is particularly serious in the case of power distribution equipment; failure comes without warning and often causes extensive damage to connected systems and other electrical equipment. Three alternatives for upgrading old equipment are discussed: total equipment replacement, utilization of used/remanufactured circuit breakers, and the retrofitting of existing circuit breakers. Retrofitting with vacuum arc interrupter technology is shown is shown to be the most cost effective and offers many advantages over older air-magnetic interrupters. These include simpler design, fewer parts and less maintenance, readily available parts, high reliability, extended insulation life, and safety. Modernization options available to industry, specifically in the area of electrical switchgear, are addressed. Emphasis is given to switchgear life extension using vacuum technology and its benefits, reliability, and economic justification. Several examples and applications are presented