Circuit interrupting device

Abstract

A circuit interrupting device is disclosed. A stationary contact is mounted within a stationary hollow insulator and connected to one side of an electrical circuit. A movable contact normally engages the stationary contact and is mounted for movement within the stationary hollow insulator. The movable contact is connected by a contact rod that extends through an opening in the insulator to a set of spring detent fingers. The spring detent fingers electrically and mechanically engage the end of a movable conductive element, such as a power fuse or disconnect switchblade, which is connected to the other side of the electrical circuit. A spring biases the movable contact toward engagement with the stationary contact. When the movable conductive element is moved away from the device, the spring detent fingers grip the element and cause the movable contact to move to disengage the stationary contact. The resultant arc is quickly extinguished by an arc extinguishing liner and trailer thereby interrupting current flow. The movable contact continues to move away from the stationary contact until the movable contact engages a limit stop within the hollow insulator. At this time, the spring detent fingers disengage the movable conductive element creating an air gap, and the spring returns the movable contact to engagement with the stationary contact. However, since the movable conductive element is now disengaged, current flow remains interrupted. A latch arrangement may be provided to latch the conductive element to the device to prevent accidental opening until the latch is manipulated by an operator.