EP1698029B1 - Tightening device for protecting against overloads - Google Patents

Tightening device for protecting against overloads Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1698029B1
EP1698029B1 EP03819272A EP03819272A EP1698029B1 EP 1698029 B1 EP1698029 B1 EP 1698029B1 EP 03819272 A EP03819272 A EP 03819272A EP 03819272 A EP03819272 A EP 03819272A EP 1698029 B1 EP1698029 B1 EP 1698029B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
unit
protection unit
holder member
connector
connection
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP03819272A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1698029A1 (en
Inventor
Hervé Alain François LINDEPERG
Alain René Robert LAGNOUX
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ABB France SAS
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ABB France SAS
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Publication of EP1698029A1 publication Critical patent/EP1698029A1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
    • H01T1/00—Details of spark gaps
    • H01T1/14—Means structurally associated with spark gap for protecting it against overload or for disconnecting it in case of failure

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the general technical field of protection devices for equipment or electrical installations, such as electrical appliances, circuits or distribution networks, against disturbances, possibly momentary power supply.
  • the present invention relates more particularly to a device for protecting electrical equipment against voltage disturbances, such as overvoltages, in particular due to lightning.
  • surge arresters or " surge arresters”
  • surge arresters are intended to discharge lightning currents to the earth, and possibly to cleave induced surges at levels compatible with the behavior of lightning strikes. equipment and materials connected downstream of protective devices.
  • Known surge arresters may be based on different technologies, depending on the nature of the active protection element they implement.
  • spark gap arresters are known, that is to say using, as an active protective element, a device comprising two electrodes placed facing each other and between which a priming causing a short circuit occurs. circuit, as soon as an overvoltage reaches a predetermined critical level.
  • Such spark gap arresters may be subject mainly to two types of end of life.
  • the spark gap can be subjected to very high intensity short-circuit currents. (several hundreds or thousands of amperes) that could cause its destruction.
  • a surge arrester (of the fuse or circuit breaker type) is integrated or associated with the surge arrester which, when it comes into action, interrupts the short-circuit current and thus preserves the integrity of the device.
  • the surge arrester may be subjected to relatively small short-circuit currents (that is to say of which the intensity is for example between a few amps and 200 amps) that can lead to its destruction.
  • relatively small short-circuit currents that is to say of which the intensity is for example between a few amps and 200 amps
  • Such a situation can for example be caused by a lightning strike causing the spark gap to be triggered, followed or accompanied by an incident in the power supply network (phase failure, imbalance of the network) leading to the introduction of a weak but destructive short-circuit current, since it eventually causes the spark gap to heat up.
  • spark gap arresters In order to remedy the safety disadvantages relating to this second situation, it is known to provide the spark gap arresters, and more particularly spark gap arresters intended to protect the neutral, with a thermal disconnection system.
  • spark gap arresters equipped with a thermal disconnection system are generally in the form of a housing of dielectric material, wherein a spark gap is welded to a circuit comprising on the one hand the disconnector, and on the other hand means connection to connect the surge arrester to the installation to be protected.
  • the thermal disconnector itself comprises a weld which when a predetermined critical temperature of the spark gap is reached, will melt and open the circuit.
  • the first disadvantage arises from the need to use different welding materials to achieve on the one hand the welding of the thermal disconnection means, and on the other hand the other assembly welds.
  • the critical safety temperature when the critical safety temperature is reached, only the The thermal disconnect must be fused, which implies that the melting point of this weld must be lower than that of the other welds used for assembly in the device.
  • the object assigned to the invention therefore aims to remedy the various disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above, and to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages which is of a design and a particularly simple and inexpensive realization.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages that is very easily and quickly repairable.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages whose assembly is particularly simple and fast.
  • a complementary object of the invention is to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages of particularly compact design.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages having an improved level of security of use.
  • the invention provides an electrical surge protection device as defined in claim 1.
  • the dependent claims define preferred embodiments.
  • the figure 1 represents a device 1 for protecting electrical equipment against surges, including temporary.
  • electrical equipment By electrical equipment is meant here all types of devices, instruments, installations, networks, electrical circuits or telecommunications likely to be subject to random power supply from the point of view of voltage, including overvoltages due to to lightning.
  • the device 1 for protection against overvoltages according to the invention thus advantageously constitutes a surge arrester.
  • the device 1 comprises a protection unit or lightning arrestor 2.
  • the protection unit 2 comprises at least, in a conventional manner, a first pole 2A and a second pole 2B, said poles being electrically connected to the equipment to be protected (not shown) via connection means 3.
  • Said protection unit 2 comprises at least one non-linear electrical component, such as for example a varistor, a Zener diode, or a spark gap (air or gas for example).
  • a non-linear electrical component such as for example a varistor, a Zener diode, or a spark gap (air or gas for example).
  • the invention is not limited to a particular type of component.
  • a protection unit 2 comprising a spark gap 2C, and more specifically a spark gap 2C specially designed to protect a neutral line, that is to say be connected between the neutral and the Earth.
  • Such a spark gap 2C is advantageously in the form of a cylindrical unitary housing comprising two parallel plane faces 20A, 20B respectively supporting the first and second poles 2A, 2B, and a lateral envelope extending between said planar faces.
  • connection means 3 consist of connection elements for electrically connecting the surge arrester 2 constituted by the spark gap 2C, the installation to protect.
  • the protection device 1 also comprises a thermal disconnection means 4, functionally connected to the unit 2 to interrupt the electrical connection between the unit 2 and the equipment to be protected when the temperature of the unit 2 reaches a predetermined critical value, beyond which the heat generated by the protection unit 2 may damage or ignite the surrounding elements.
  • the thermal disconnection means 4 is thus arranged relative to the protection unit 2 to be sensitive to the heat generated by the latter, so as to be triggered in case of overheating to interrupt the flow of current.
  • the device 1 also comprises a functional coupling means 5 of the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3.
  • This functional coupling means 5 makes it possible to ensure the electrical connection of each of the poles 2A, 2B to the connection means. 3, the latter being intended to be connected to the electrical installation, for example between the neutral and the earth.
  • All of the aforementioned elements, namely the protection unit 2, the connection means 3, the thermal disconnection means 4 and the functional coupling means 5 are preferably mounted in a housing 1A (shown in FIG. figure 1 ), made of insulating material, to form a unitary monoblock subset.
  • the functional coupling means 5 ensures, in addition to its thermal connection function of the unit 2 to the connection means 3, a function for holding said unit 2 in position in the case 1 A.
  • the coupling means 5 is designed to exert a clamping of the protection unit 2, so as to ensure the electrical connection of said poles 2A, 2B to the connection means 3.
  • the device 1 according to the invention achieves this. coupling only by the exercise of a suitable clamping force of the protection unit 2, without the use of welding.
  • the only solder present in the device 1 will be that possibly corresponding to thermal disconnection means.
  • the presence of a single nature of welding thus makes it possible to limit any risk of confusion during the manufacturing process, and thus promotes a good level of quality of the device according to the invention, at a lower cost.
  • the general principle of the invention is therefore based on the replacement of a connection by welding by a " cold" assembly , obtained by the implementation of a clamping force preferably applied directly to the unit 2.
  • the coupling means 5 is thus designed to apply a pinch or clipping mechanical stress on the protection unit 2 itself, this clamping making it possible to bring the protection unit 2 into electrical contact with the connection means. 3.
  • This clamping advantageously also ensures a holding in position of the protection unit 2 relative to the connection means 3 and the housing 1 A.
  • the coupling means 5 exerts, by virtue of its clamping action, both a function of electrical connection of the poles 2A, 2B to the connection means 3, and a function of holding in position (immobilization ) of the protection unit 2 in the housing 1A.
  • the coupling means 5 is also designed to allow a removable coupling of the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3.
  • the coupling means 5 allows the user to connect and disconnect at will, simply and quickly, the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3.
  • Such a technical arrangement allows an easy repair of the device 1 in case of failure of the protection unit 2 itself, since the invention allows the replacement substantially immediately and without the need for special tools (such as soldering iron and braid desoldering) of the protection unit 2.
  • the coupling means 5 comprises a first holding member 5A, arranged to bear against the first pole 2A, and a second holding member 5B, arranged to bear against the second pole 2B, the first and second holding members 5A, 5B cooperating to exert a compression of the protection unit 2, preferably along the axis XX 'passing through its poles 2A, 2B.
  • first and second holding members 5A, 5B cooperate to apply on each face 20A, 20B carrying the poles 2A, 2B of the spark gap 2C forces of identical intensities but in opposite directions, such that the spark gap is held in position and in electrical contact with the connection means 3.
  • connection means 3 comprise on the one hand a first connector 3A, electrically connected to the first holding member 5A, which is made, at least partially, of a first electrically conductive material, and on the other hand a second 3B connector, electrically connected to the second holding member 5B, which is formed, at least partially, a second electrically conductive material.
  • the second holding member 5B and the second connector 3B are formed by a single piece 50B, as shown in FIGS. Figures 1 to 3 .
  • first holding member 5A and the first connector 3A are formed by a single piece.
  • the thermal disconnection means 4 is thermally connected, in particular by conduction, to the second connector 3B and / or to the second holding member 5B.
  • the second connector 3B and / or the second holding member 5B acts as the conductor (s) of the thermal information from the unit 2 to the thermal disconnection means 4.
  • the first holding member 5A is functionally and structurally different from the second holding member 5B.
  • first holding member 5A is more specifically dedicated to the generation of a positive clamping action of the unit 2
  • second holding member 5B is more specifically dedicated to the optimal transmission to the thermal disconnector 4 of FIG. the heat possibly produced by unit 2.
  • the first holding member 5A thus comprises a pressure piece 50A of the clip type, which is in the form of an elastic member whose deformation capacity produces, when it is stressed, a reactive setting force. in pressure.
  • the pressure piece 50A is in the form of a U-shaped cross-section leaf spring, one of the arms 6 of the U bearing on the first connector 3A, while the other arm 7 bears against and on the first pole 2A, the arms 6, 7 being connected by a core 51.
  • the first material from which the pressure piece 50A is made will advantageously be selected to have good elasticity characteristics.
  • this first material may be based on a copper alloy.
  • the second holding member 5B it preferably comprises a heat transfer part 50B, intended to communicate by conduction the heat emitted by the protection unit 2 by means of thermal disconnection 4.
  • the heat transfer part 50B also forms a stop piece for the unit 2, that is to say that the latter is pressed longitudinally along the axis XX 'by the pressing piece 50A against the workpiece 50B abutment, the latter preferably having a rigid character.
  • the abutment piece 50B is shaped so that the contact interface between the protection unit 2 and said abutment piece 50B has a maximum area, depending on the space constraints inherent in the design of the device 1, in order to optimize the heat transfer by conduction between the unit 2 and the abutment piece 50B.
  • the abutment piece 50B may advantageously have a flat bearing surface 8 of sufficient size to completely cover, in plane support, the face 20B of the unit 2 carrying the second pole 2B, as shown. to the Figures 1 and 2 .
  • the second material from which the abutment piece 50B is made will be selected to have excellent thermal conductivity.
  • this second material may be substantially pure copper.
  • connection means 3 also comprise a third connector 3C, said first connector 3A and third connector 3C being intended to be electrically connected to the equipment to be protected.
  • the thermal disconnection means 4 is designed to be able to pass from a closure configuration (shown in the figures), in which it provides an electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C, to an opening configuration. wherein said electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C is broken.
  • the thermal disconnection means 4 comprises a slider 4A, preferably having a rigid character, mounted to elastically elastic sliding between a first return position, corresponding to the interruption of the electrical connection between the unit 2 and the equipment to be protected, and a second position in which the slider 4A makes an electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C, said slider being held immobilized in second position by a fuse means 4B, welding type.
  • a slider 4A preferably having a rigid character, mounted to elastically elastic sliding between a first return position, corresponding to the interruption of the electrical connection between the unit 2 and the equipment to be protected, and a second position in which the slider 4A makes an electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C, said slider being held immobilized in second position by a fuse means 4B, welding type.
  • the slider 4A is preferably mounted to elastic axial sliding against a spring 9, for example compression.
  • the slider 4A also has a sweep flange 4C which makes it possible to scrape the weld 4B when the slider 4A moves from its second position to its first return position, so as to eliminate any residue of liquid weld that could establish a inadvertent connection between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C.
  • a sweep flange 4C which makes it possible to scrape the weld 4B when the slider 4A moves from its second position to its first return position, so as to eliminate any residue of liquid weld that could establish a inadvertent connection between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C.
  • the thermal disconnection means 4 allows the opening of the contact simultaneously at two points, namely at the second connector 3B and at the third connector 3C.
  • the cutoff distance is optimized, since it represents twice the distance traveled by the slider 4A from its second position to its first position.
  • This technical arrangement is particularly advantageous in the case where the intensity of the current to be cut is in a high range (for example between 100 and 200 A in the case of a protector protection of the neutral line).
  • the thermal disconnection means can implement, instead of a rigid slider, a flexible conductive braid system, or even only a fuse means. It is also conceivable to use a thermal disconnection means which is exactly in the form of that illustrated in the figures, but which uses instead of a fuse means as a means for holding the slider 4A in the second position, a bimetal arranged to deflect when the temperature reaches the critical predetermined value, this deflection generating the release of the slider 4A.
  • the protection unit 2 which is in this case constituted by a spark gap 2C, is inserted in force between the pressure clip 50A and the abutment piece 50B.
  • the first planar face 20A of the spark gap 2C pushes the arm 7 of the pressure piece towards the other arm 6.
  • the arm 7 exerts a force against said face 20A, according to a substantially linear or pseudo-linear support, said support being sufficient to ensure adequate electrical connection of the spark gap 2C with the pressure piece 50A.
  • the second planar face 20B bears flat against the bearing surface 8 of the abutment piece 50B. This surface support optimizes the heat transfer between the unit 2 and the abutment piece 50B.
  • a clipping of the spark gap 2C is thus obtained. Said clipping simultaneously generates the electrical connection, the locking in position and the thermal connection of the spark gap 2C.
  • the housing 1A is then closed, so that one has a unitary cartridge provided with two connection pins formed by the first and third connectors 3A, 3C. This cartridge is then connected to the electrical panel of the installation to be protected, for example between neutral and phase.
  • this heating is communicated by conduction to the weld 4B, via the abutment piece 50B provided especially for this purpose.
  • the weld 4B melts, which releases the slider 4A which returns to the return position under the effect of the action of the spring 9.
  • the electrical contact between the installation and the spark gap 2C is thereby broken, which stops at the same time the heating of the spark gap, thus preventing any risk of fire.
  • the out of service spark gap 2C can be very easily replaced by a new spark gap, since it suffices to open the case 1A, extirpate manually the used spark gap 2C, and interpose the new spark gap between the pressure piece 50A and the stop piece 50B.
  • the invention thus makes it possible to benefit from a modular arrester having excellent electrical and thermal connections of its protection unit 2 with the rest of the device 1, without the use of assembly welds.
  • the invention finds its industrial application in the design, manufacture and use of surge protection devices, such as surge arresters.

Abstract

The invention concerns a device (1) for protecting electrical equipment against overloads comprising: a protective unit (2) having at least one first and one second pole (2A, 2B), these poles (2A, 2B) being electrically connected to the equipment via connecting means (3); a functional coupling means (5) of the protective unit (2) for coupling to the connecting means (3), and; a thermal disconnecting means (4) functionally joined to said protective unit (2) for interrupting the electrical connection between the unit (2) and the equipment when the temperature of the unit reaches a predetermined critical value. The invention is characterized in that the coupling means (5) is designed for exerting a tightening of the protective unit (2) in a manner that ensures the electrical connection of the poles (2A, 2B) to the connecting means (3). The invention also relates to an electrical device for protecting against overloads.

Description

DOMAINE TECHNIQUETECHNICAL AREA

La présente invention se rapporte au domaine technique général des dispositifs de protection d'équipements ou d'installations électriques, du genre appareils électriques, circuits ou réseaux de distribution, contre des perturbations, éventuellement momentanées, d'alimentation électrique.The present invention relates to the general technical field of protection devices for equipment or electrical installations, such as electrical appliances, circuits or distribution networks, against disturbances, possibly momentary power supply.

Le présente invention concerne plus particulièrement un dispositif de protection d'équipements électriques contre des perturbations de tension, telles que les surtensions, notamment dues à la foudre.The present invention relates more particularly to a device for protecting electrical equipment against voltage disturbances, such as overvoltages, in particular due to lightning.

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions comprenant :

  • une unité de protection comprenant au moins un premier et un deuxième pôles, lesdits pôles étant connectés électriquement audit équipement par l'intermédiaire de moyens de connexion,
  • un moyen d'accouplement fonctionnel de l'unité de protection aux moyens de connexion,
  • un moyen de déconnexion thermique, relié fonctionnellement à ladite unité pour interrompre la connexion électrique entre l'unité et l'équipement lorsque la température de l'unité atteint une valeur critique prédéterminée.
The present invention relates to a device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages comprising:
  • a protection unit comprising at least a first and a second pole, said poles being electrically connected to said equipment via connection means,
  • a means of functional coupling of the protection unit to the connection means,
  • thermal disconnect means operatively connected to said unit for interrupting the electrical connection between the unit and the equipment when the temperature of the unit reaches a predetermined critical value.

TECHNIQUE ANTERIEUREPRIOR ART

Les dispositifs de protection d'équipements électriques contre les surtensions sont connus et couramment utilisés.Protective devices for electrical equipment against overvoltages are known and commonly used.

De tels dispositifs, qui sont parfois désignés sous l'appellation « parasurtenseurs » ou « parafoudres », ont pour but d'écouler à la terre des courants de foudre, et éventuellement d'écrêter des surtensions induites à des niveaux compatibles avec la tenue des équipements et matériels raccordés en aval des dispositifs de protection.Such devices, which are sometimes referred to as " surge arresters " or " surge arresters ", are intended to discharge lightning currents to the earth, and possibly to cleave induced surges at levels compatible with the behavior of lightning strikes. equipment and materials connected downstream of protective devices.

Les parafoudres connus peuvent être basés sur des technologies différentes, selon la nature de l'élément actif de protection qu'ils mettent en oeuvre.Known surge arresters may be based on different technologies, depending on the nature of the active protection element they implement.

On connaît en particulier des parafoudres à éclateur, c'est-à-dire utilisant, en tant qu'élément actif de protection, un dispositif comprenant deux électrodes placées en vis-à-vis et entre lesquelles se produit un amorçage provoquant un court-circuit, dès qu'une surtension atteint un niveau critique prédéterminé.In particular, spark gap arresters are known, that is to say using, as an active protective element, a device comprising two electrodes placed facing each other and between which a priming causing a short circuit occurs. circuit, as soon as an overvoltage reaches a predetermined critical level.

De tels parafoudres à éclateur peuvent être sujets principalement à deux types de fin de vie.Such spark gap arresters may be subject mainly to two types of end of life.

Dans la première situation de fin de vie, que l'on rencontre généralement lorsque le parafoudre est connecté entre l'une des phases à protéger et la terre, l'éclateur peut être soumis à des courants de court-circuit d'intensité très importante (plusieurs centaines ou milliers d'ampères) qui pourraient occasionner sa destruction. Afin de prévenir un tel événement, on intègre ou on associe au parafoudre un organe de coupure (du type fusible ou disjoncteur) qui lorsqu'il entre en action, interrompt le courant de court-circuit et préserve ainsi l'intégrité du dispositif.In the first end-of-life situation, which is generally encountered when the surge arrester is connected between one of the phases to be protected and the earth, the spark gap can be subjected to very high intensity short-circuit currents. (several hundreds or thousands of amperes) that could cause its destruction. In order to prevent such an event, a surge arrester (of the fuse or circuit breaker type) is integrated or associated with the surge arrester which, when it comes into action, interrupts the short-circuit current and thus preserves the integrity of the device.

Dans la deuxième situation de fin de vie, qui se rencontre notamment lorsque le parafoudre est connecté entre la ligne de neutre et la terre, le parafoudre peut être soumis à des courants de court-circuit relativement faibles (c'est-à-dire dont l'intensité est comprise par exemple entre quelques ampères et 200 ampères) pouvant conduire à sa destruction. Une telle situation peut par exemple être occasionnée par un coup de foudre provoquant l'amorçage de l'éclateur, suivi ou accompagné d'un incident dans le réseau d'alimentation (rupture de phase, déséquilibre du réseau) conduisant à l'instauration d'un courant de court-circuit faible mais destructeur, puisqu'il provoque à terme l'échauffement de l'éclateur.In the second end-of-life situation, which occurs in particular when the surge arrester is connected between the neutral line and the earth, the surge arrester may be subjected to relatively small short-circuit currents (that is to say of which the intensity is for example between a few amps and 200 amps) that can lead to its destruction. Such a situation can for example be caused by a lightning strike causing the spark gap to be triggered, followed or accompanied by an incident in the power supply network (phase failure, imbalance of the network) leading to the introduction of a weak but destructive short-circuit current, since it eventually causes the spark gap to heat up.

Afin de remédier aux inconvénients de sécurité relatifs à cette deuxième situation, il est connu de pourvoir les parafoudres à éclateur, et plus particulièrement les parafoudres à éclateur destinés à protéger le neutre, d'un système de déconnexion thermique.In order to remedy the safety disadvantages relating to this second situation, it is known to provide the spark gap arresters, and more particularly spark gap arresters intended to protect the neutral, with a thermal disconnection system.

Ces parafoudres à éclateur munis d'un système de déconnexion thermique se présentent généralement sous la forme d'un boîtier en matériau diélectrique, dans lequel un éclateur est soudé à un circuit comprenant d'une part le déconnecteur, et d'autre part des moyens de connexion permettant de connecter le parafoudre à l'installation à protéger. Le déconnecteur thermique comprend lui-même une soudure qui lorsqu'une température critique prédéterminée de l'éclateur est atteinte, va fondre et ouvrir le circuit.These spark gap arresters equipped with a thermal disconnection system are generally in the form of a housing of dielectric material, wherein a spark gap is welded to a circuit comprising on the one hand the disconnector, and on the other hand means connection to connect the surge arrester to the installation to be protected. The thermal disconnector itself comprises a weld which when a predetermined critical temperature of the spark gap is reached, will melt and open the circuit.

Ces dispositifs connus, s'ils donnent généralement satisfaction, présentent cependant un certain nombre d'inconvénients.These known devices, if they generally give satisfaction, however, have a number of disadvantages.

Le premier inconvénient provient de la nécessité d'utiliser des matériaux de soudure différents pour réaliser d'une part la soudure du moyen de déconnexion thermique, et d'autre part les autres soudures d'assemblage. En effet, lorsque la température critique de sécurité est atteinte, seule la soudure du déconnecteur thermique doit fondre, ce qui implique que le point de fusion de cette soudure doit être plus bas que celui des autres soudures mises en oeuvre à des fins d'assemblage dans le dispositif.The first disadvantage arises from the need to use different welding materials to achieve on the one hand the welding of the thermal disconnection means, and on the other hand the other assembly welds. In fact, when the critical safety temperature is reached, only the The thermal disconnect must be fused, which implies that the melting point of this weld must be lower than that of the other welds used for assembly in the device.

Cette nécessité d'utiliser deux matériaux de soudure différents lors des étapes de fabrication implique un risque non négligeable d'interversion des soudures, ce qui peut conduire à des problèmes de sécurité d'utilisation. Afin d'éviter de tels problèmes de fabrication, les fabricants de ces dispositifs de protection connus sont donc généralement conduits à mettre en oeuvre des procédures de surveillance et de contrôle du processus de fabrication qui conduisent à une majoration du prix des parafoudres, sans pour autant totalement éliminer le risque que le déconnecteur thermique soit fabriqué avec une simple soudure d'assemblage et non avec la soudure spécifique qui lui est destinée.This need to use two different welding materials during the manufacturing steps involves a significant risk of reversal of the welds, which can lead to safety problems of use. In order to avoid such manufacturing problems, the manufacturers of these known protection devices are therefore generally led to implement monitoring and control procedures of the manufacturing process which lead to an increase in the price of the surge arresters, without however completely eliminate the risk that the thermal disconnector is manufactured with a simple assembly weld and not with the specific weld that is intended for it.

Il est cependant connu de US-B- 6,614,640 un parafoudre présentant un boîtier dans lequel une varistance en forme de disque est montée serrée entre deux disques de contact munis d'élément élastique de contact. L'un des disques de contact est sollicité contre la varistance par un ressort hélicoïdal qui prend appui sur un élément de connexion électrique du parafoudre qui est clipsé dans le boîtier, le ressort assurant la conduction électrique entre le disque de contact et l'élément de connexion. L'autre disque de contact est en appui contre un épaulement du boîtier et est relié par une tige filetée à un deuxième élément de connexion électrique du parafoudre. Une liaison fusible est prévue entre le disque et la tige filetée et un ressort sollicite le deuxième élément de connexion par le biais d'une pièce isolante servant d'indicateur de défaillance et qui est montée coulissante dans le boîtier. Lorsque la liaison fusible fond du fait de l'échauffement de la varistance, le ressort repousse la pièce isolante servant d'indicateur de défaillance et le deuxième élément de connexion vers l'extérieur du boîtier, la connexion électrique entre la varistance et le deuxième élément de connexion étant alors interrompu.It is, however, known to US-B-6,614,640 a surge arrester having a housing in which a disk-shaped varistor is tightly mounted between two contact disks provided with an elastic contact element. One of the contact discs is biased against the varistor by a helical spring which is supported on an electrical connection element of the surge arrester which is clipped into the casing, the spring ensuring the electrical conduction between the contact disc and the element of connection. The other contact disk bears against a shoulder of the housing and is connected by a threaded rod to a second electrical connection element of the surge arrester. A fuse link is provided between the disk and the threaded rod and a spring urges the second connecting member through an insulating piece serving as a failure indicator and which is slidably mounted in the housing. When the fuse link melts due to the heating of the varistor, the spring pushes the insulating piece serving as a failure indicator and the second connection element to the outside of the housing, the electrical connection between the varistor and the second element connection is then interrupted.

Par ailleurs, le mode de conception et de fabrication de ces parafoudres connus rend très difficile, voire impossible, la réparation dudit parafoudre dans le cas où l'éclateur est arrivé en fin de vie.Furthermore, the design and manufacture of these known surge arresters makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to repair said surge arrester in the case where the spark gap is at the end of its life.

Cela peut conduire à la mise au rebus de dispositifs dont seul le composant actif est dégradé.This can lead to the scrapping of devices of which only the active component is degraded.

EXPOSE DE L'INVENTIONSUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

L'objet assigné à l'invention vise en conséquence à porter remède aux différents inconvénients de l'art antérieur mentionnés précédemment, et à proposer un nouveau dispositif de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions qui soit d'une conception et d'une réalisation particulièrement simple et peu onéreuse.The object assigned to the invention therefore aims to remedy the various disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above, and to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages which is of a design and a particularly simple and inexpensive realization.

Un autre objet de l'invention vise à proposer un nouveau dispositif de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions qui soit très facilement et rapidement réparable.Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages that is very easily and quickly repairable.

Un autre objet de l'invention vise à proposer un nouveau dispositif de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions dont l'assemblage est particulièrement simple et rapide.Another object of the invention is to provide a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages whose assembly is particularly simple and fast.

Un objet complémentaire de l'invention vise à proposer un nouveau dispositif de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions de conception particulièrement compacte.A complementary object of the invention is to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages of particularly compact design.

Un autre objet de l'invention vise à proposer un nouveau dispositif de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions présentant un niveau de sécurité d'utilisation amélioré.Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for protecting electrical equipment against overvoltages having an improved level of security of use.

Ainsi, l'invention propose un dispositif de protection d'équipement étectrique contre des surtensions tel que défini dans la revendication 1. Les revendications dépendantes définissent des modes de réalisation préférés.Thus, the invention provides an electrical surge protection device as defined in claim 1. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments.

DESCRIPTIF SOMMAIRE DES DESSINSSUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

D'autres objets et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront plus en détails à la lecture de la description qui suit, en référence aux dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemples illustratifs et non limitatifs dans lesquels :

  • La figure 1 illustre, selon une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale, un dispositif de protection conforme à l'invention.
  • La figure 2 illustre, selon une vue schématique en coupe transversale, une opération d'assemblage du dispositif représenté à la figure 1.
  • La figure 3 illustre, selon une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale partielle, le principe de réalisation du déconnecteur thermique équipant le dispositif représenté aux figures 1 et 2.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear in more detail on reading the description which follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings given by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples in which:
  • The figure 1 illustrates, in a schematic longitudinal sectional view, a protection device according to the invention.
  • The figure 2 illustrates, in a schematic cross-sectional view, an assembly operation of the device shown in FIG. figure 1 .
  • The figure 3 illustrates, in a schematic view in partial longitudinal section, the embodiment of the thermal disconnect equipping the device shown in FIGS. Figures 1 and 2 .

MEILLEURE MANIERE DE REALISER L'INVENTIONBEST MODE OF REALIZING THE INVENTION

La figure 1 représente un dispositif 1 de protection d'équipement électrique contre des surtensions, notamment provisoires.The figure 1 represents a device 1 for protecting electrical equipment against surges, including temporary.

Par équipement électrique, on entend ici tous types d'appareils, instruments, installations, réseaux, circuits électriques ou de télécommunication susceptible d'être sujet à des aléas d'alimentation électrique du point de vue de la tension, et notamment à des surtensions dues à la foudre.By electrical equipment is meant here all types of devices, instruments, installations, networks, electrical circuits or telecommunications likely to be subject to random power supply from the point of view of voltage, including overvoltages due to to lightning.

Le dispositif 1 de protection contre des surtensions conforme à l'invention constitue ainsi avantageusement un parafoudre.The device 1 for protection against overvoltages according to the invention thus advantageously constitutes a surge arrester.

Conformément à l'invention, le dispositif 1 comprend une unité de protection ou cellule parafoudre 2.According to the invention, the device 1 comprises a protection unit or lightning arrestor 2.

L'unité de protection 2 comprend au moins, de façon classique, un premier pôle 2A et un deuxième pôle 2B, lesdits pôles étant connectés électriquement à l'équipement à protéger (non représenté) par l'intermédiaire de moyens de connexion 3.The protection unit 2 comprises at least, in a conventional manner, a first pole 2A and a second pole 2B, said poles being electrically connected to the equipment to be protected (not shown) via connection means 3.

Ladite unité de protection 2 comprend au moins un composant électrique non linéaire, comme par exemple une varistance, une diode Zener, ou un éclateur (à air ou à gaz par exemple). L'invention n'est pas limitée à un type particulier de composant.Said protection unit 2 comprises at least one non-linear electrical component, such as for example a varistor, a Zener diode, or a spark gap (air or gas for example). The invention is not limited to a particular type of component.

Dans ce qui suit, on fera plus particulièrement référence à une unité de protection 2 comprenant un éclateur 2C, et plus spécifiquement un éclateur 2C spécialement conçu pour protéger une ligne de neutre, c'est-à-dire être connecté entre le neutre et la terre.In what follows, reference will be made more particularly to a protection unit 2 comprising a spark gap 2C, and more specifically a spark gap 2C specially designed to protect a neutral line, that is to say be connected between the neutral and the Earth.

Un tel éclateur 2C se présente avantageusement sous la forme d'un boîtier unitaire cylindrique comprenant deux faces planes parallèles 20A, 20B supportant respectivement les premier et deuxième pôles 2A, 2B, ainsi qu'une enveloppe latérale s'étendant entre lesdites faces planes.Such a spark gap 2C is advantageously in the form of a cylindrical unitary housing comprising two parallel plane faces 20A, 20B respectively supporting the first and second poles 2A, 2B, and a lateral envelope extending between said planar faces.

Les moyens de connexion 3 sont constitués d'éléments de connectique permettant de relier électriquement la cellule parafoudre 2 constituée par l'éclateur 2C, à l'installation à protéger.The connection means 3 consist of connection elements for electrically connecting the surge arrester 2 constituted by the spark gap 2C, the installation to protect.

Conformément à l'invention, le dispositif de protection 1 comprend également un moyen de déconnexion thermique 4, relié fonctionnellement à l'unité 2 pour interrompre la connexion électrique entre l'unité 2 et l'équipement à protéger lorsque la température de l'unité 2 atteint une valeur critique prédéterminée, au-delà de laquelle la chaleur dégagée par l'unité de protection 2 risque d'endommager ou d'incendier les éléments environnants. Le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4 est ainsi agencé relativement à l'unité de protection 2 pour être sensible à la chaleur dégagée par cette dernière, de manière à pouvoir se déclencher en cas de surchauffe pour interrompre le passage du courant.According to the invention, the protection device 1 also comprises a thermal disconnection means 4, functionally connected to the unit 2 to interrupt the electrical connection between the unit 2 and the equipment to be protected when the temperature of the unit 2 reaches a predetermined critical value, beyond which the heat generated by the protection unit 2 may damage or ignite the surrounding elements. The thermal disconnection means 4 is thus arranged relative to the protection unit 2 to be sensitive to the heat generated by the latter, so as to be triggered in case of overheating to interrupt the flow of current.

Le dispositif 1 comprend également un moyen d'accouplement fonctionnel 5 de l'unité de protection 2 aux moyens de connexion 3. Ce moyen d'accouplement fonctionnel 5 permet d'assurer la connexion électrique de chacun des pôles 2A, 2B aux moyens de connexion 3, ces derniers étant destinés à être branchés sur l'installation électrique, par exemple entre le neutre et la terre.The device 1 also comprises a functional coupling means 5 of the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3. This functional coupling means 5 makes it possible to ensure the electrical connection of each of the poles 2A, 2B to the connection means. 3, the latter being intended to be connected to the electrical installation, for example between the neutral and the earth.

L'ensemble des éléments précités, à savoir l'unité de protection 2, les moyens de connexion 3, le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4 et le moyen d'accouplement fonctionnel 5 sont montés de manière préférentielle dans un boîtier 1A (représenté à la figure 1), réalisé en matière isolante, pour former un sous-ensemble monobloc unitaire.All of the aforementioned elements, namely the protection unit 2, the connection means 3, the thermal disconnection means 4 and the functional coupling means 5 are preferably mounted in a housing 1A (shown in FIG. figure 1 ), made of insulating material, to form a unitary monoblock subset.

De façon préférentielle, le moyen d'accouplement fonctionnel 5 assure, outre sa fonction de connexion thermique de l'unité 2 aux moyens de connexion 3, une fonction de maintien en position de ladite unité 2 dans le boîtier 1 A.Preferably, the functional coupling means 5 ensures, in addition to its thermal connection function of the unit 2 to the connection means 3, a function for holding said unit 2 in position in the case 1 A.

Conformément à une caractéristique importante de l'invention, le moyen d'accouplement 5 est conçu pour exercer un serrage de l'unité de protection 2, de façon à assurer la connexion électrique desdits pôles 2A, 2B aux moyens de connexion 3.According to an important characteristic of the invention, the coupling means 5 is designed to exert a clamping of the protection unit 2, so as to ensure the electrical connection of said poles 2A, 2B to the connection means 3.

Ainsi, contrairement aux dispositifs de l'art antérieur qui mettaient en oeuvre, en tant que moyen d'accouplement de l'unité de protection 2 aux moyens de connexion 3, des soudures, le dispositif 1 conforme à l'invention réalise cet accouplement exclusivement par l'exercice d'un effort de serrage approprié de l'unité de protection 2, sans utilisation de soudure.Thus, unlike the devices of the prior art which used, as coupling means of the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3, welds, the device 1 according to the invention achieves this. coupling only by the exercise of a suitable clamping force of the protection unit 2, without the use of welding.

De cette façon, la seule soudure présente dans le dispositif 1 sera celle correspondant éventuellement au moyen de déconnexion thermique. La présence d'une seule nature de soudure permet ainsi de limiter tout risque de confusion au cours du processus de fabrication, et favorise ainsi un bon niveau de qualité du dispositif conforme à l'invention, à moindre coût.In this way, the only solder present in the device 1 will be that possibly corresponding to thermal disconnection means. The presence of a single nature of welding thus makes it possible to limit any risk of confusion during the manufacturing process, and thus promotes a good level of quality of the device according to the invention, at a lower cost.

Le principe général de l'invention repose donc sur le remplacement d'une connexion par soudure par un assemblage « à froid », obtenu par la mise en oeuvre d'un effort de serrage appliqué de préférence directement sur l'unité 2.The general principle of the invention is therefore based on the replacement of a connection by welding by a "cold" assembly , obtained by the implementation of a clamping force preferably applied directly to the unit 2.

Le moyen d'accouplement 5 est ainsi conçu pour appliquer une contrainte mécanique de pincement ou de clippage sur l'unité de protection 2 elle-même, ce serrage permettant la mise en contact électrique de l'unité de protection 2 et des moyens de connexion 3. Ce serrage permet avantageusement d'assurer également un maintien en position de l'unité de protection 2 relativement au moyen de connexion 3 et au boîtier 1 A.The coupling means 5 is thus designed to apply a pinch or clipping mechanical stress on the protection unit 2 itself, this clamping making it possible to bring the protection unit 2 into electrical contact with the connection means. 3. This clamping advantageously also ensures a holding in position of the protection unit 2 relative to the connection means 3 and the housing 1 A.

Par conséquent, de façon avantageuse, le moyen d'accouplement 5 exerce, grâce à son action de serrage, à la fois une fonction de connexion électrique des pôles 2A, 2B aux moyens de connexion 3, et une fonction de maintien en position (immobilisation) de l'unité de protection 2 dans le boîtier 1A.Therefore, advantageously, the coupling means 5 exerts, by virtue of its clamping action, both a function of electrical connection of the poles 2A, 2B to the connection means 3, and a function of holding in position (immobilization ) of the protection unit 2 in the housing 1A.

De façon préférentielle, le moyen d'accouplement 5 est également conçu pour autoriser un accouplement amovible de l'unité de protection 2 aux moyens de connexion 3. En d'autres termes, le moyen d'accouplement 5 autorise l'utilisateur à connecter et déconnecter à volonté, de façon simple et rapide, l'unité de protection 2 aux moyens de connexion 3.Preferably, the coupling means 5 is also designed to allow a removable coupling of the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3. In other words, the coupling means 5 allows the user to connect and disconnect at will, simply and quickly, the protection unit 2 to the connection means 3.

Une telle disposition technique permet une réparation aisée du dispositif 1 en cas de défaillance de l'unité de protection 2 elle-même, puisque l'invention permet le remplacement sensiblement immédiat et sans nécessité d'outils particuliers (du genre fer à souder et tresse à dessouder) de l'unité de protection 2.Such a technical arrangement allows an easy repair of the device 1 in case of failure of the protection unit 2 itself, since the invention allows the replacement substantially immediately and without the need for special tools (such as soldering iron and braid desoldering) of the protection unit 2.

De façon préférentielle, le moyen d'accouplement 5 comprend un premier organe de maintien 5A, agencé pour venir en appui contre le premier pôle 2A, et un deuxième organe de maintien 5B, agencé pour venir en appui contre le deuxième pôle 2B, les premier et deuxième organes de maintien 5A, 5B coopérant pour exercer une compression de l'unité de protection 2, de préférence selon l'axe X-X' passant par ses pôles 2A, 2B.Preferably, the coupling means 5 comprises a first holding member 5A, arranged to bear against the first pole 2A, and a second holding member 5B, arranged to bear against the second pole 2B, the first and second holding members 5A, 5B cooperating to exert a compression of the protection unit 2, preferably along the axis XX 'passing through its poles 2A, 2B.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré aux figures, les premier et deuxième organes de maintien 5A, 5B coopèrent pour appliquer sur chaque face 20A, 20B portant les pôles 2A, 2B de l'éclateur 2C des efforts d'intensités identiques mais de sens opposés, de telle sorte que l'éclateur est maintenue en position et en contact électrique avec les moyens de connexion 3.In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the first and second holding members 5A, 5B cooperate to apply on each face 20A, 20B carrying the poles 2A, 2B of the spark gap 2C forces of identical intensities but in opposite directions, such that the spark gap is held in position and in electrical contact with the connection means 3.

Les organes de maintien 5A, 5B exercent ainsi un pincement de l'unité 2 selon l'axe X-X', ledit pincement permettant d'assurer à la fois une connexion électrique et un maintien mécanique.The holding members 5A, 5B and pinch the unit 2 along the axis X-X ', said pinching to ensure both an electrical connection and a mechanical hold.

Avantageusement, les moyens de connexion 3 comprennent d'une part un premier connecteur 3A, relié électriquement au premier organe de maintien 5A, lequel est réalisé, au moins partiellement, en un premier matériau conducteur d'électricité, et d'autre part un deuxième connecteur 3B, relié électriquement au deuxième organe de maintien 5B, lequel est réalisé, au moins partiellement, en un deuxième matériau conducteur d'électricité. De manière préférentielle, le deuxième organe de maintien 5B et le deuxième connecteur 3B sont formés par une seule et même pièce 50B, tel que cela est représenté aux figures 1 à 3.Advantageously, the connection means 3 comprise on the one hand a first connector 3A, electrically connected to the first holding member 5A, which is made, at least partially, of a first electrically conductive material, and on the other hand a second 3B connector, electrically connected to the second holding member 5B, which is formed, at least partially, a second electrically conductive material. Preferably, the second holding member 5B and the second connector 3B are formed by a single piece 50B, as shown in FIGS. Figures 1 to 3 .

Il est également envisageable que le premier organe de maintien 5A et le premier connecteur 3A soient formés par une seule et même pièce.It is also conceivable that the first holding member 5A and the first connector 3A are formed by a single piece.

Avantageusement, le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4 est relié thermiquement, notamment par conduction, au deuxième connecteur 3B et/ou au deuxième organe de maintien 5B. En d'autres termes, le deuxième connecteur 3B et/ou le deuxième organe de maintien 5B joue(nt) le rôle de conducteur(s) de l'information thermique en provenance de l'unité 2 vers le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4.Advantageously, the thermal disconnection means 4 is thermally connected, in particular by conduction, to the second connector 3B and / or to the second holding member 5B. In other words, the second connector 3B and / or the second holding member 5B acts as the conductor (s) of the thermal information from the unit 2 to the thermal disconnection means 4.

Avantageusement, le premier organe de maintien 5A est différent fonctionnellement et structurellement du deuxième organe de maintien 5B.Advantageously, the first holding member 5A is functionally and structurally different from the second holding member 5B.

En particulier, le premier organe de maintien 5A est plus spécifiquement dédié à la génération d'une action positive de serrage de l'unité 2, tandis que le deuxième organe de maintien 5B est plus spécifiquement dédié à la transmission optimale au déconnecteur thermique 4 de la chaleur éventuellement produite par l'unité 2.In particular, the first holding member 5A is more specifically dedicated to the generation of a positive clamping action of the unit 2, whereas the second holding member 5B is more specifically dedicated to the optimal transmission to the thermal disconnector 4 of FIG. the heat possibly produced by unit 2.

De manière préférentielle, le premier organe de maintien 5A comprend ainsi une pièce de pression 50A du genre clip, qui se présente sous la forme d'un organe élastique dont la capacité de déformation produit, lorsqu'elle est sollicitée, un effort réactif de mise en pression.Preferably, the first holding member 5A thus comprises a pressure piece 50A of the clip type, which is in the form of an elastic member whose deformation capacity produces, when it is stressed, a reactive setting force. in pressure.

De manière préférentielle, la pièce de pression 50A se présente sous la forme d'une lame ressort de section transversale en forme de U, l'un des bras 6 du U prenant appui sur le premier connecteur 3A, tandis que l'autre bras 7 prend appui contre et sur le premier pôle 2A, les bras 6, 7 étant reliés par une âme 51.Preferably, the pressure piece 50A is in the form of a U-shaped cross-section leaf spring, one of the arms 6 of the U bearing on the first connector 3A, while the other arm 7 bears against and on the first pole 2A, the arms 6, 7 being connected by a core 51.

Le premier matériau à partir duquel est réalisée la pièce de pression 50A sera avantageusement choisi pour présenter de bonnes caractéristiques d'élasticité. A titre d'exemple, ce premier matériau pourra être à base d'un alliage de cuivre.The first material from which the pressure piece 50A is made will advantageously be selected to have good elasticity characteristics. For example, this first material may be based on a copper alloy.

Quant au deuxième organe de maintien 5B, il comprend préférentiellement une pièce de transmission de chaleur 50B, destinée à communiquer par conduction la chaleur émise par l'unité de protection 2 au moyen de déconnexion thermique 4.As for the second holding member 5B, it preferably comprises a heat transfer part 50B, intended to communicate by conduction the heat emitted by the protection unit 2 by means of thermal disconnection 4.

De manière avantageuse, la pièce de transmission de chaleur 50B forme également pièce de butée pour l'unité 2, c'est-à-dire que cette dernière est pressée longitudinalement selon l'axe X-X' par la pièce de pression 50A contre la pièce de butée 50B, cette dernière présentant de préférence un caractère rigide.Advantageously, the heat transfer part 50B also forms a stop piece for the unit 2, that is to say that the latter is pressed longitudinally along the axis XX 'by the pressing piece 50A against the workpiece 50B abutment, the latter preferably having a rigid character.

Avantageusement, la pièce de butée 50B est conformée pour que l'interface de contact entre l'unité de protection 2 et ladite pièce de butée 50B présentent une aire maximale, en fonction des contraintes d'encombrement inhérentes à la conception du dispositif 1, de façon à optimiser le transfert thermique par conduction entre l'unité 2 et la pièce de butée 50B.Advantageously, the abutment piece 50B is shaped so that the contact interface between the protection unit 2 and said abutment piece 50B has a maximum area, depending on the space constraints inherent in the design of the device 1, in order to optimize the heat transfer by conduction between the unit 2 and the abutment piece 50B.

A cette fin, la pièce de butée 50B pourra avantageusement présenter une surface d'appui plane 8 de dimension suffisante pour couvrir complètement, selon un appui plan, la face 20B de l'unité 2 portant le deuxième pôle 2B, tel que cela est représenté aux figures 1 et 2.To this end, the abutment piece 50B may advantageously have a flat bearing surface 8 of sufficient size to completely cover, in plane support, the face 20B of the unit 2 carrying the second pole 2B, as shown. to the Figures 1 and 2 .

Afin d'optimiser le transfert thermique sus-mentionné, le deuxième matériau à partir duquel est réalisée la pièce de butée 50B sera choisi pour présenter une excellente conductivité thermique. A titre d'exemple, ce deuxième matériau pourra être du cuivre sensiblement pur.In order to optimize the heat transfer mentioned above, the second material from which the abutment piece 50B is made will be selected to have excellent thermal conductivity. By way of example, this second material may be substantially pure copper.

Avantageusement, les moyens de connexion 3 comprennent également un troisième connecteur 3C, lesdits premier connecteur 3A et troisième connecteur 3C étant destinés être connectés électriquement à l'équipement à protéger.Advantageously, the connection means 3 also comprise a third connector 3C, said first connector 3A and third connector 3C being intended to be electrically connected to the equipment to be protected.

Avantageusement, le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4 est conçu pour être susceptible de passer d'une configuration de fermeture (représentée aux figures), dans laquelle il assure un contact électrique entre les deuxième et troisième connecteurs 3B, 3C, à une configuration d'ouverture, dans laquelle ledit contact électrique entre les deuxième et troisième connecteurs 3B, 3C est rompu.Advantageously, the thermal disconnection means 4 is designed to be able to pass from a closure configuration (shown in the figures), in which it provides an electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C, to an opening configuration. wherein said electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C is broken.

De façon préférentielle, le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4 comprend un curseur 4A, présentant de préférence un caractère rigide, monté à coulissement axial élastique entre une première position de rappel, correspondant à l'interruption de la connexion électrique entre l'unité 2 et l'équipement à protéger, et une deuxième position dans laquelle le curseur 4A établit un contact électrique entre les deuxième et troisième connecteurs 3B, 3C, ledit curseur étant maintenu immobilisé en deuxième position par un moyen fusible 4B, du genre soudure.Preferably, the thermal disconnection means 4 comprises a slider 4A, preferably having a rigid character, mounted to elastically elastic sliding between a first return position, corresponding to the interruption of the electrical connection between the unit 2 and the equipment to be protected, and a second position in which the slider 4A makes an electrical contact between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C, said slider being held immobilized in second position by a fuse means 4B, welding type.

Tel que cela est représenté schématiquement à la figure 3, le curseur 4A est monté préférentiellement à coulissement axial élastique à l'encontre d'un ressort 9, par exemple de compression.As schematically represented in the figure 3 , the slider 4A is preferably mounted to elastic axial sliding against a spring 9, for example compression.

De façon préférentielle, le curseur 4A comporte également un rebord de balayage 4C qui permet de racler la soudure 4B lorsque le curseur 4A passe de sa deuxième position à sa première position de rappel, de façon à éliminer tout résidu de soudure liquide qui pourrait établir une connexion intempestive entre les deuxième et troisième connecteurs 3B, 3C.Preferably, the slider 4A also has a sweep flange 4C which makes it possible to scrape the weld 4B when the slider 4A moves from its second position to its first return position, so as to eliminate any residue of liquid weld that could establish a inadvertent connection between the second and third connectors 3B, 3C.

Ainsi, le moyen de déconnexion thermique 4 permet l'ouverture du contact simultanément en deux points, à savoir au niveau du deuxième connecteur 3B et au niveau du troisième connecteur 3C. La distance de coupure est donc optimisée, puisqu'elle représente le double de la distance parcourue par le curseur 4A de sa deuxième à sa première position. Cette disposition technique est particulièrement avantageuse dans le cas où l'intensité du courant à couper serait dans une fourchette élevée (par exemple comprise entre 100 et 200 A dans le cas d'un parafoudre de protection de la ligne de neutre).Thus, the thermal disconnection means 4 allows the opening of the contact simultaneously at two points, namely at the second connector 3B and at the third connector 3C. The cutoff distance is optimized, since it represents twice the distance traveled by the slider 4A from its second position to its first position. This technical arrangement is particularly advantageous in the case where the intensity of the current to be cut is in a high range (for example between 100 and 200 A in the case of a protector protection of the neutral line).

L'invention n'est cependant pas limitée au moyen spécifique de déconnexion thermique qui a été décrit précédemment. A titre alternatif, le moyen de déconnexion thermique peut mettre en oeuvre, à la place d'un curseur rigide, un système à tresse conductrice souple, voire uniquement un moyen fusible. Il est également envisageable de mettre en oeuvre un moyen de déconnexion thermique se présentant exactement sous la forme de celui illustré aux figures, mais qui utilise, à la place d'un moyen fusible en tant que moyen de maintien du curseur 4A en deuxième position, un bilame agencé pour défléchir lorsque la température atteint la valeur prédéterminée critique, cette déflexion engendrant la libération du curseur 4A.The invention is however not limited to the specific means of thermal disconnection which has been previously described. As an alternative, the thermal disconnection means can implement, instead of a rigid slider, a flexible conductive braid system, or even only a fuse means. It is also conceivable to use a thermal disconnection means which is exactly in the form of that illustrated in the figures, but which uses instead of a fuse means as a means for holding the slider 4A in the second position, a bimetal arranged to deflect when the temperature reaches the critical predetermined value, this deflection generating the release of the slider 4A.

On va maintenant décrire succinctement la fabrication et l'utilisation du dispositif conforme à l'invention, en se basant sur le mode de réalisation correspondant aux figures 1 à 3.We will now briefly describe the manufacture and use of the device according to the invention, based on the embodiment corresponding to the Figures 1 to 3 .

Lors de l'étape de fabrication du parafoudre 1, l'unité de protection 2, qui est en l'occurrence constituée par un éclateur 2C, est insérée en force entre le clip de pression 50A et la pièce de butée 50B. Au cours de cette phase d'insertion, la première face plane 20A de l'éclateur 2C pousse le bras 7 de la pièce de pression vers l'autre bras 6. En réaction, le bras 7 exerce un effort contre ladite face 20A, selon un appui sensiblement linéaire ou pseudo-linéaire, ledit appui étant suffisant pour assurer une connexion électrique adéquate de l'éclateur 2C avec la pièce de pression 50A. Au cours de la phase d'insertion, la deuxième face plane 20B vient en appui plan contre la surface d'appui 8 de la pièce de butée 50B. Cet appui surfacique permet d'optimiser le transfert thermique entre l'unité 2 et la pièce de butée 50B. A l'issue de la phase d'insertion, on obtient ainsi un clippage de l'éclateur 2C. Ledit clippage engendre simultanément la connexion électrique, le blocage en position et la connexion thermique de l'éclateur 2C.During the step of manufacturing the arrester 1, the protection unit 2, which is in this case constituted by a spark gap 2C, is inserted in force between the pressure clip 50A and the abutment piece 50B. During this insertion phase, the first planar face 20A of the spark gap 2C pushes the arm 7 of the pressure piece towards the other arm 6. In response, the arm 7 exerts a force against said face 20A, according to a substantially linear or pseudo-linear support, said support being sufficient to ensure adequate electrical connection of the spark gap 2C with the pressure piece 50A. During the insertion phase, the second planar face 20B bears flat against the bearing surface 8 of the abutment piece 50B. This surface support optimizes the heat transfer between the unit 2 and the abutment piece 50B. At the end of the insertion phase, a clipping of the spark gap 2C is thus obtained. Said clipping simultaneously generates the electrical connection, the locking in position and the thermal connection of the spark gap 2C.

Le boîtier 1A est ensuite fermé, de sorte que l'on dispose d'une cartouche unitaire pourvue de deux broches de connexion formées par les premiers et troisième connecteurs 3A, 3C. Cette cartouche est alors branchée sur le tableau électrique de l'installation à protéger, par exemple entre le neutre et la phase.The housing 1A is then closed, so that one has a unitary cartridge provided with two connection pins formed by the first and third connectors 3A, 3C. This cartridge is then connected to the electrical panel of the installation to be protected, for example between neutral and phase.

Dans le cas où survient un échauffement anormal de l'éclateur 2C, cet échauffement est communiqué par conduction à la soudure 4B, via la pièce de butée 50B prévue notamment à cet effet. La soudure 4B fond, ce qui libère le curseur 4A qui retourne en position de rappel sous l'effet de l'action du ressort 9. Le contact électrique entre l'installation et l'éclateur 2C est de ce fait rompu, ce qui arrête par la même occasion l'échauffement de l'éclateur, prévenant ainsi tout risque d'embrasement.In the case where an abnormal heating of the spark gap 2C occurs, this heating is communicated by conduction to the weld 4B, via the abutment piece 50B provided especially for this purpose. The weld 4B melts, which releases the slider 4A which returns to the return position under the effect of the action of the spring 9. The electrical contact between the installation and the spark gap 2C is thereby broken, which stops at the same time the heating of the spark gap, thus preventing any risk of fire.

L'éclateur 2C hors service peut être très facilement remplacé par un nouvel éclateur, puisqu'il suffit pour cela d'ouvrir le boîtier 1 A, d'extirper manuellement l'éclateur usagé 2C, et d'interposer le nouvel éclateur entre la pièce de pression 50A et la pièce de butée 50B.The out of service spark gap 2C can be very easily replaced by a new spark gap, since it suffices to open the case 1A, extirpate manually the used spark gap 2C, and interpose the new spark gap between the pressure piece 50A and the stop piece 50B.

L'invention permet ainsi de bénéficier d'un parafoudre modulaire présentant d'excellentes connexions électriques et thermiques de son unité de protection 2 avec le reste du dispositif 1, sans utilisation de soudures d'assemblage.The invention thus makes it possible to benefit from a modular arrester having excellent electrical and thermal connections of its protection unit 2 with the rest of the device 1, without the use of assembly welds.

POSSIBILITE D'APPLICATION INDUSTRIELLEPOSSIBILITY OF INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

L'invention trouve son application industrielle dans la conception, la fabrication et l'utilisation de dispositifs de protection contre des surtensions, du genre parafoudres.The invention finds its industrial application in the design, manufacture and use of surge protection devices, such as surge arresters.

Claims (14)

  1. A device (1) for protecting electrical equipment against voltage surges, comprising:
    - a protection unit (2) having at least a first and a second pole (2A, 2B), said poles (2A, 2B) being electrically connected to said equipment via connection means (3);
    - functional coupling means (5) for coupling the protection unit (2) to the connection means (3);
    - thermal disconnector means (4) functionally connected to said unit (2) to interrupt the electrical connection between the unit (2) and the equipment when the temperature of the unit reaches a predetermined critical value;
    wherein said coupling means (5) is designed to exert a clamping force on the protection unit (2) in such a manner as to ensure electrical connection between said poles (2A, 2B) and the connection means (3), the coupling means (5) comprising a first holder member (5A) arranged to bear against said first pole (2A) and a second holder member (5B) arranged to bear against said second pole (2B), the first and second holder members (5A, 5B) co-operating to exert compression on the protection unit (2),
    characterized in that the device is designed to allow the protection unit (2) to be inserted by force between the first and second holder members (5A, 5B), the first holder member (5A) comprising a clip-type presser part (50A).
  2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the presser part (50A) is a spring blade of U-shaped cross-section, one of the limbs (6) of the U-shape bearing against the first connector (3A), while the other limb (7) bears against the first pole (2A).
  3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a package (1A) in which are mounted the protection unit (2), the connection means (3), the thermal disconnector means (4) and the functional coupling means (5) to form a unitary one-piece subassembly, the package (1A) being closed to constitute a unitary cartridge provided with two connection pins and adapted to be connected to the electricity panel of the installation to be protected.
  4. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the protection unit (2) comprises a spark gap (2C).
  5. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the coupling means (5) is designed to allow releasable coupling between the protection unit (2) and the connection means (3).
  6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the connection means (3) comprise, firstly, a first connector (3A) electrically connected to the first holder member (5A), which member is made of the first electrically conductive material, and, secondly, a second connector (3B) electrically connected to the second holder member (5B), which member is made of a second electrically conductive material.
  7. The device according to claim 6, in which the second holder member (5B) and the second connector (3B) are of a unitary one-piece construction (50B).
  8. The device according to claim 6 or 7, in which the thermal disconnector means (4) is thermally connected to the second connector (3B) and/or to the second holder member (5B).
  9. The device according to claim 8, in which the first holder member (5A) is structurally and functionally different from the second holder member (5B).
  10. The device according to claim 9, in which the second holder member (5B) comprises a heat transmission part (50B).
  11. The device according to claim 10, in which the heat transmission part (50B) is an abutment part shaped whereby the contact interface between the protector unit (2) and said abutment part (50B) has a maximum surface area.
  12. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, in which the second material is selected so as to exhibit excellent thermal conductivity.
  13. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 12, in which the first connector (3A) is designed to be connected to said equipment, the connection means (3) also comprising a third connector (3C) designed to be connected to the equipment, the thermal disconnector means (4) being designed to be able to change from a closed configurations, in which it ensures electrical contact between the second and third connectors (3B, 3C), to an opened configuration, in which said electrical contact between the second and third connectors (3B, 3C) is interrupted.
  14. The device according to claim 13, in which the thermal disconnection means (4) comprises a slider (4A) mounted to slide elastically in an axial direction between a first or return position corresponding to interrupting the electrical connection between the unit (2) and the equipment, and a second position in which the slider (4A) establishes the electrical contact between the second and third connectors (3B, 3C), said slider being held in a second abutment position by fusible means (4B).
EP03819272A 2003-12-15 2003-12-15 Tightening device for protecting against overloads Expired - Lifetime EP1698029B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/FR2003/003723 WO2005069457A1 (en) 2003-12-15 2003-12-15 Tightening device for protecting against overloads

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1698029A1 EP1698029A1 (en) 2006-09-06
EP1698029B1 true EP1698029B1 (en) 2010-08-11

Family

ID=34778507

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP03819272A Expired - Lifetime EP1698029B1 (en) 2003-12-15 2003-12-15 Tightening device for protecting against overloads

Country Status (7)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1698029B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1894834B (en)
AT (1) ATE477607T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003300611A1 (en)
DE (2) DE20380358U1 (en)
PL (1) PL213761B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2005069457A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2959617B1 (en) * 2010-04-30 2012-05-11 Abb France PROTECTIVE ENVELOPE FOR A LAPPING DEVICE WITH A STARTING DEVICE

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN2346095Y (en) * 1998-06-19 1999-10-27 江祥和 Surge killer tube
FR2783365B1 (en) * 1998-09-15 2000-12-01 Soule Materiel Electr DEVICE FOR PROTECTING ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AGAINST INTERFERENCE WITH THE POWER SUPPLY
DE10000617A1 (en) * 2000-01-10 2001-07-12 Abb Hochspannungstechnik Ag Surge arresters

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN1894834A (en) 2007-01-10
AU2003300611A1 (en) 2005-08-03
WO2005069457A1 (en) 2005-07-28
ATE477607T1 (en) 2010-08-15
CN1894834B (en) 2010-04-28
EP1698029A1 (en) 2006-09-06
PL380434A1 (en) 2007-01-22
DE20380358U1 (en) 2006-10-12
DE60333804D1 (en) 2010-09-23
PL213761B1 (en) 2013-04-30

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