Circuit Breaker Arc Chute

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Circuit Breaker Arc Chute

Definition

The Circuit Breaker Arc Chute is a critical safety component in electrical circuit breakers, designed to rapidly extinguish electric arcs that form during circuit interruption. It consists of multiple metal plates arranged in a grid pattern within an insulating housing. Manufactured through precision stamping, plating, and assembly processes, it is essential for preventing equipment damage and fire hazards in electrical distribution systems. The arc chute operates by dividing and cooling the arc into smaller segments using metal plates, increasing arc resistance until current flow stops. This component is used in low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies, typically rated for system voltages from 400 to 690 V AC, with breaking capacities from 10 to 50 kA. It contains 8 to 20 arc plates, made of galvanized steel, housed in a ceramic enclosure, and includes copper contacts for electrical connection. The insulation class is F to H per IEC 60085, and the arc extinguishing time ranges from 10 to 30 ms. Operating temperature spans -40 to 85 °C, with non-condensing humidity up to 95% RH. The component's dimensions vary from 100×50×30 mm to 200×100×60 mm, with a weight of 0.5 to 2.0 kg. Dimensional tolerance is ±0.5 mm per ISO 2768, and the IP rating is IP20 to IP40 per IEC 60529. These parameters are reference ranges; actual values must be confirmed with the legal manufacturer for the specific model and application. Standards listed (IEC 60947, IEC 60085, ISO 2768, IEC 60068, IEC 60529) serve as procurement and verification references, not as proof of certification or compliance. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the supplier before installation.

Working Principle

When a circuit breaker interrupts current, an electric arc forms between the contacts. The arc chute's metal plates divide this arc into smaller segments, increasing the total arc voltage and resistance. The plates also cool the arc by absorbing heat, which helps deionize the arc path. As the arc is stretched and cooled, its resistance rises until the current drops to zero, extinguishing the arc. The insulating housing confines the arc and directs it into the plate stack, preventing damage to surrounding components. This process occurs within milliseconds, ensuring safe interruption of fault currents.

Common Materials

galvanized steel plates, ceramic housing, copper contacts

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Rated VoltageRequired	400–690 kV	Maximum system voltageIEC 60947
Breaking CapacityRequired	10–50 kA	Maximum interrupt currentIEC 60947
Plate Count	8–20 pcs	Number of arc plates
Insulation ClassRequired	F–H class	Dielectric strength ratingIEC 60085
Arc Extinguishing Time	10–30 ms	Time to fully extinguish arc
Operating Temperature	-40–85 °C	Ambient temperature rangeIEC 60947
Material	Steel + Ceramic	Steel plates with ceramic insulation
Weight	0.5–2.0 kg	Depends on size and plate count
Dimensions	100×50×30 – 200×100×60 mm	Length×width×height
Tolerance	±0.5 mm	Dimensional tolerance for mountingISO 2768
Humidity	≤95 % RH	Non-condensingIEC 60068
IP Rating	IP20–IP40	Protection against solid objectsIEC 60529

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Arc Plates Part
Divide and cool electric arcs

Material: Galvanized Steel
Insulating Housing Part
Structural support and electrical isolation

Material: Ceramic/Plastic
Mounting Brackets Optional Part
Secure assembly in breaker

Material: Stainless Steel
Arc Runner Contacts Part
Guide arc into chute

Material: Copper Alloy

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Circuit Breaker Arc Chute.

Manufacturers of Circuit Breaker Arc Chute

Manufacturer profiles associated with Circuit Breaker Arc Chute.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of an arc chute in a circuit breaker?

The arc chute extinguishes the electric arc that forms when a circuit breaker interrupts current. It divides and cools the arc using metal plates, increasing resistance until the current stops, preventing damage and fire.

What materials are used in an arc chute?

Typical materials include galvanized steel plates for arc splitting, a ceramic housing for insulation and heat resistance, and copper contacts for electrical connection. Confirm exact materials with the manufacturer.

What are the typical voltage and current ratings?

Reference ranges are 400–690 V for rated voltage and 10–50 kA for breaking capacity, per IEC 60947. Actual ratings depend on the specific model and must be verified.

How should I verify the arc chute's specifications?

Check the nameplate and technical datasheet for parameters like voltage, current, insulation class, and dimensions. Ensure compliance with relevant standards (e.g., IEC 60947) by consulting the manufacturer.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Atmospheric to 1.5 bar
other spec:	Rated breaking capacity: 10-100 kA
temperature:	-40°C to 150°C

Product Specifications

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