Circuit breaker analyzer performs specific tests to measure and assess detailed parameters crucial to circuit breaker performance. Here are the key parameters it tests, with more specifics:

1. Contact Timing (Opening and Closing):

• Open Time: Measures the duration from the initiation of a trip signal to the separation of breaker contacts.
• Close Time: Measures how long it takes for the breaker contacts to fully close once the signal is given.
• Pre-Insertion Resistor (PIR) Timing: Measures the timing of resistors inserted into the circuit to limit inrush current during closing.

2. Contact Resistance:

• Measures the resistance across the breaker’s closed contacts, typically in micro-ohms. Abnormally high resistance may indicate worn or damaged contacts, leading to inefficiency or overheating.

3. Motion (Travel) Analysis:

• Contact Travel Distance: Measures how far the breaker contacts move during opening and closing operations.
• Velocity: Monitors the speed of the contact movement. Deviations can signal mechanical wear or poor performance.
• Acceleration: Checks the change in velocity of contacts. This can help in diagnosing mechanical binding or wear.

4. Synchronization:

• Measures the simultaneous operation of the breaker’s three poles in a multi-phase system to ensure they open and close together, preventing imbalanced load conditions.

5. Coil Current and Voltage:

• Trip Coil and Close Coil Current: Analyzes the current profiles during the energization of the trip and close coils. This test checks the condition of the coils and any mechanical linkage problems.
• Coil Resistance: Measures the electrical resistance of the trip and close coils to ensure they are within specification.

6. Dynamic Contact Resistance Measurement (DRM):

• Monitors the resistance of the breaker contacts dynamically during opening or closing to assess wear on arcing contacts and other internal components.

7. Minimum Pick-up Voltage:

• Measures the minimum control voltage required for the trip or close coil to operate, ensuring that the breaker will function correctly under control voltage variations.

8. Contact Bounce Time:

• Measures how long the contacts bounce after closure. Excessive bounce can lead to electrical arcing, which can damage the breaker and associated equipment.

9. Insulation Resistance:

• Tests the insulation between the breaker contacts and the ground to ensure there is no leakage current, which can cause failure over time.

10. Reclosing Time:

• Measures the time interval between tripping and reclosure for breakers that are set to auto-reclose. This is critical for systems where quick restoration of service is necessary.

These detailed tests allow maintenance personnel to assess the breaker’s mechanical and electrical integrity, ensuring reliability and safety in electrical systems.

Oct 25,2024