EP3232457A1 - Dc electrical circuit breaker - Google Patents

Dc electrical circuit breaker Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3232457A1
EP3232457A1 EP17166705.8A EP17166705A EP3232457A1 EP 3232457 A1 EP3232457 A1 EP 3232457A1 EP 17166705 A EP17166705 A EP 17166705A EP 3232457 A1 EP3232457 A1 EP 3232457A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
circuit breaker
magnet
arc
magnetic
contact
Prior art date
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP17166705.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3232457B1 (en
Inventor
Eric Domejean
Loïc Rondot
Stéphane DYE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Schneider Electric Industries SAS
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Schneider Electric Industries SAS
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Publication date
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Publication of EP3232457A1 publication Critical patent/EP3232457A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3232457B1 publication Critical patent/EP3232457B1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H73/00—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches in which excess current opens the contacts by automatic release of mechanical energy stored by previous operation of a hand reset mechanism
    • H01H73/02—Details
    • H01H73/18—Means for extinguishing or suppressing arc
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/30—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H9/34—Stationary parts for restricting or subdividing the arc, e.g. barrier plate
    • H01H9/346—Details concerning the arc formation chamber
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H33/00—High-tension or heavy-current switches with arc-extinguishing or arc-preventing means
    • H01H33/02—Details
    • H01H33/04—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H33/18—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using blow-out magnet
    • H01H33/182—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using blow-out magnet using permanent magnets
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
    • H01F1/00—Magnets or magnetic bodies characterised by the magnetic materials therefor; Selection of materials for their magnetic properties
    • H01F1/01—Magnets or magnetic bodies characterised by the magnetic materials therefor; Selection of materials for their magnetic properties of inorganic materials
    • H01F1/03—Magnets or magnetic bodies characterised by the magnetic materials therefor; Selection of materials for their magnetic properties of inorganic materials characterised by their coercivity
    • H01F1/032—Magnets or magnetic bodies characterised by the magnetic materials therefor; Selection of materials for their magnetic properties of inorganic materials characterised by their coercivity of hard-magnetic materials
    • H01F1/04—Magnets or magnetic bodies characterised by the magnetic materials therefor; Selection of materials for their magnetic properties of inorganic materials characterised by their coercivity of hard-magnetic materials metals or alloys
    • H01F1/047—Alloys characterised by their composition
    • H01F1/053—Alloys characterised by their composition containing rare earth metals
    • H01F1/055—Alloys characterised by their composition containing rare earth metals and magnetic transition metals, e.g. SmCo5
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H33/00—High-tension or heavy-current switches with arc-extinguishing or arc-preventing means
    • H01H33/02—Details
    • H01H33/04—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H33/08—Stationary parts for restricting or subdividing the arc, e.g. barrier plate
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H73/00—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches in which excess current opens the contacts by automatic release of mechanical energy stored by previous operation of a hand reset mechanism
    • H01H73/02—Details
    • H01H73/04—Contacts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H73/00—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches in which excess current opens the contacts by automatic release of mechanical energy stored by previous operation of a hand reset mechanism
    • H01H73/02—Details
    • H01H73/20—Terminals; Connections
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H77/00—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches operated by excess current and requiring separate action for resetting
    • H01H77/02—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches operated by excess current and requiring separate action for resetting in which the excess current itself provides the energy for opening the contacts, and having a separate reset mechanism
    • H01H77/10—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches operated by excess current and requiring separate action for resetting in which the excess current itself provides the energy for opening the contacts, and having a separate reset mechanism with electrodynamic opening
    • H01H77/107—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches operated by excess current and requiring separate action for resetting in which the excess current itself provides the energy for opening the contacts, and having a separate reset mechanism with electrodynamic opening characterised by the blow-off force generating means, e.g. current loops
    • H01H77/108—Protective overload circuit-breaking switches operated by excess current and requiring separate action for resetting in which the excess current itself provides the energy for opening the contacts, and having a separate reset mechanism with electrodynamic opening characterised by the blow-off force generating means, e.g. current loops comprising magnetisable elements, e.g. flux concentrator, linear slot motor
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/30—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H9/34—Stationary parts for restricting or subdividing the arc, e.g. barrier plate
    • H01H9/36—Metal parts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/30—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H9/44—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using blow-out magnet
    • H01H9/443—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using blow-out magnet using permanent magnets
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/30—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H9/44—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using blow-out magnet
    • H01H9/446—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using blow-out magnet using magnetisable elements associated with the contacts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H1/00—Contacts
    • H01H1/12—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage
    • H01H1/14—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting
    • H01H1/20—Bridging contacts
    • H01H1/2041—Rotating bridge
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/30—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts
    • H01H9/46—Means for extinguishing or preventing arc between current-carrying parts using arcing horns

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an electric breaker circuit breaker with air cutoff having an improved arc breaking capacity.
  • DC and air-interruptions electrical circuit breakers which comprise electrical contacts, connected to input and output terminals of the electric current and being selectively movable relative to each other between a closed position, in which respective contact areas of the first and second electrical contacts are in contact with each other to allow the flow of direct electric current between the first and second electrical contacts, and an open position, in which these contact areas are distant from each other.
  • circuit breakers make it possible to protect electrical systems against abnormal conditions, such as an electrical overcurrent or a short circuit, by rapidly interrupting the flow of electric current when such an abnormal condition is detected.
  • abnormal conditions such as an electrical overcurrent or a short circuit
  • fast is meant that the electric current must be interrupted in less than 100ms or, preferably, less than 10ms after detection of the abnormal condition.
  • the conductors are moved away from each other to their open position.
  • an electric arc is formed between their contact zones. This arc must be off in order to interrupt the flow of electric current.
  • the electric arc is blown in the direction of an arc-breaking chamber, where it is extinguished, thus allowing interrupt the flow of the current.
  • Such a blowing effect is partly caused by an electromagnetic force exerted on the electric arc, under the effect of the magnetic field created by the flow of electric current in the electric arc itself.
  • the magnetic field generated by the electric arc itself is not sufficient to move it by blowing towards the breaking chamber.
  • the electric arc can thus persist long between the two electrical contact zones. This is not desirable because the circuit breaker does not quickly interrupt the flow of current, which can cause a situation that is unsafe.
  • FR 2 632 772 B1 a circuit breaker in which a permanent magnet is disposed on an arc horn at the inlet of the interrupting chamber, so as to generate a constant magnetic field for moving an electric arc towards the chamber cutoff regardless of the value of the electric current.
  • a device does not give complete satisfaction and more is complicated to produce industrially and requires sometimes significant modifications of existing circuit breakers for its integration.
  • the invention intends to remedy more particularly by proposing a reversible electric circuit breaker with reversible polarity and in which an electric arc can be reliably interrupted even for low values of electric current intensity. and can be made industrially in a simple manner.
  • the circuit breaker further comprises a magnetic circuit including a magnet and generating a magnetic field which is able to guide, in the direction of the breaking chamber, an electric arc formed between the contact zones in the open position, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic circuit having for this purpose curved field lines which extend substantially perpendicular to opposite side walls of the arc-forming chamber, these side walls being arranged on both sides of the contact zones substantially parallel longitudinally, these converging field lines, at a central region of the arc forming chamber containing the contact zones, towards the breaking chamber extending parallel to the longitudinal plane, and the magnet is capable of generating a magnetic field greater than or equal to 0.5 Tesla, or, preferably, greater than or equal to 1 Tesla.
  • the magnetic field created by the magnet and the magnetic circuit exerts a force on the electric arc which first moves the latter away from the electrical contact areas and perpendicularly to the longitudinal plane. Due to the configuration of the magnetic field lines, the force exerted on the electric arc then changes direction, so as to then direct the electric arc to the breaking chamber. Because of the symmetrical configuration with respect to the longitudinal plane, the electric arc is moved to the interrupting chamber irrespective of the direction of flow of the electric current in the circuit breaker. In addition, the magnetic circuit is easily integrated with existing circuit breakers, without imposing significant structural changes.
  • the figure 1 represents a part of a circuit breaker 1 DC and cut in air.
  • the circuit breaker 1 here comprises a closed housing, inside which are placed components of this circuit breaker 1.
  • This housing is for example made of thermoformed plastic material.
  • the circuit breaker 1 housing is not shown on the figure 1 .
  • the circuit breaker 1 comprises electrical terminals 2 and 2 'of input and output of an electric current.
  • the terminals 2 and 2 'are configured to electrically connect the circuit breaker 1 to an electrical circuit that is to be protected.
  • the polarities of the circuit breaker 1 are reversible, that is to say that the terminals 2 and 2 'can alternately and indifferently serve as input or output terminals of the electric current in the circuit breaker 1.
  • the circuit breaker 1 here comprises two subsets 1a and 1b each associated with a terminal 2, 2 '.
  • the first subassembly 1a comprises the following elements: a first electrical contact 21 connected to the terminal 2, an arc breaking chamber 4 and a magnetic circuit 5.
  • the second subassembly 1b comprises the following elements: an electrical contact 21 'connected to the terminal 2', a chamber 4 'of arc cutting and a magnetic circuit 5'.
  • the elements of the second subset 1b are identical and have a function similar to those of the first subset 1a.
  • the elements of the second subassembly 1b bear the same reference number as those of the first subset 1a, plus the symbol "'".
  • the contact 21 ' is analogous to the contact 21, and differs here only in its position in the circuit breaker 1.
  • the circuit breaker 1 further comprises a mobile part 3, movable in rotation about a fixed axis X1 of the circuit breaker 1.
  • the mobile part 3 is pivotally mounted about an axis about a shaft integral with the circuit breaker housing 1.
  • the mobile part 3 is here electrically conductive between contact zones 30 and 30 'opposite.
  • P1 a longitudinal geometric plane of the circuit breaker 1.
  • the plane P1 forms a plane of symmetry of the circuit breaker 1.
  • the elements of the circuit breaker 1 are further arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis X1 .
  • the axis X1 is perpendicular to the plane P1.
  • Z1 a geometric axis perpendicular to the axis X1 and contained in the plane P1 and which defines here a vertical direction.
  • the electrical contact 21 is provided with a contact zone 22 intended to be brought into contact with the corresponding zone 30 of the part 3.
  • the contact zones 22 and 30 each comprise an electrically conductive contact pad, for example made of a metallic material, such as silver or copper.
  • the electrical contact 21 is electrically connected to the terminal 2, while the mobile part 3 is electrically connected to the terminal 2 ', as explained in the following.
  • the contact 21 is fixed relative to the circuit breaker 1.
  • the electrical contact 21 is in the form of a bar made of an electrically conductive material, for example copper, which extends parallel to a fixed axis Y1 of the circuit breaker.
  • the axis Y1 here extends longitudinally with respect to the plane P1 and in a horizontal direction.
  • the electrical contact 21 is formed in one piece with the terminal 2. More precisely, the bar comprises two superimposed straight portions, extending parallel to each other along the axis Y1 and connected to each other. between them by a portion 20 of this bar, this portion 20 being curved in the shape of a "U".
  • the contact zone 22 is formed on one of the straight portions of the electrical contact 21.
  • the portion of the terminal 2 intended to be connected to the outside is formed on the opposite straight portion of the electrical contact 21. More specifically, the contact zone 22 is formed on an upper part of the electrical contact 21 facing the corresponding contact zone 30 of the mobile part 3.
  • the moving part 3 here plays the role of electrical contact vis-à-vis the electrical contact 21.
  • the movable portion 3 and the electrical contact 21 are movable relative to each other, selectively and reversibly between closed and open positions.
  • the contact zones 22 and 30 are in direct contact with one another to allow the flow of electric current between the mobile part 3 and the electrical contact 21.
  • the contact zones 22 and 30 are spaced from each other, which prevents the flow of electric current when no electric arc is present between the contacts 22 and 30.
  • the contact zones 22 and are at least 5 mm apart, preferably at least 15 mm apart.
  • the arrows F1 illustrate the direction of movement of the movable portion 3 from the closed position to the open position.
  • the displacement of the movable portion 3 between the closed and open positions is carried out according to the plane P1, that is to say that the path of the contact zone 30 during the displacement is parallel to the plane P1.
  • the contact areas 21 and 30 are substantially aligned along an axis parallel to the axis Z1.
  • Part 3 is here indirectly connected to the terminal 2 ', via, in particular, the electrical contact 21' of the second subassembly 1b.
  • open and closed positions of the movable part 3 are defined with respect to the electrical contact 21 '.
  • the electrical contact 21 ' here extends along a fixed axis Y1' parallel to the axis Y1.
  • the circuit breaker 1 is arranged such that the part 3 is simultaneously in the open position or in the closed position, vis-à-vis the electrical contacts 21 and 21 '.
  • the displacement to the open position is done simultaneously for each of these two subsets 1a and 1b.
  • the movable portion 3 is in the closed position, the electric current can flow between the terminals 2 and 2 'through the contact areas 21 and 21', the movable portion 3 and their respective contact areas.
  • the displacement of the movable portion 3 to its open position is intended to prevent the circulation of this electric current between the terminals 2 and 2 '.
  • the electric current is prevented from circulating between the terminals 2 and 2 '.
  • the circuit breaker 1 also comprises a trip circuit, not shown, configured to automatically move the movable portion 3 to the open position when a malfunction is detected, such as an overcurrent of the electric current flowing between the terminals 2 and 2 '.
  • the chamber 4 is at least partially defined by walls of the circuit breaker housing.
  • the breaking chamber 4 comprises a stack of arc cutting plates 41, electrically conductive and superimposed with each other. These plates are intended to extinguish the electric arc once this electric arc has penetrated inside the breaking chamber 4.
  • these plates are identical to each other and have a flat shape, inscribed in a quadrilateral is in which is formed an incision substantially shaped "V" on an edge facing the areas 22 and 30.
  • the stack of plates 41 is surmounted by an upper horn 43 of arc disposed above a plate 42 d end of the stack.
  • the circuit breaker 1 comprises an arc forming chamber.
  • This chamber is, for example, at least partly defined by internal walls of the casing of the circuit breaker 1.
  • the contact areas 22 and 30 are located inside this arc forming chamber.
  • the arc forming chamber is in communication with the breaking chamber 4 and opens into the interior of the latter. Both the arc forming chamber and the breaking chamber 4 are filled with air.
  • P2 a geometrical plane perpendicular to the plane P1 and extending in the direction Z1.
  • the plane P2 here forms a longitudinal sectional plane of the arc formation chamber.
  • the arc-forming chamber has a parallelepiped-shaped prism shape whose lateral faces parallel to the plane P1 are formed by the side walls 31, 32.
  • the circuit breaker further comprises side walls 31 and 32, which delimit opposite faces of this arc forming chamber parallel to the plane P1.
  • the walls 31 and 32 have a substantially flat shape and parallel to the plane P1.
  • the walls 31 and 32 opposite are arranged on either side of the zones of contact 22 and 30 facing each other.
  • the walls 31 and 32 are made of a ferromagnetic material, such as steel or iron.
  • the walls 31 and 32 are each placed at a distance of between 10 mm and 100 mm from the contact zone 22, this distance being measured in a direction parallel to the axis X1.
  • the magnetic circuit 5 is configured to generate a magnetic field capable of guiding, in the direction of the breaking chamber 4, an electric arc 6 formed between the contact zones 22 and 30 following the displacement, towards the open position, of the part 3. Due to the arrangement of the contact zones 22 and 30 in the open position, the electric arc 6 extends substantially along a direction parallel to the plane P1 and to the axis Z1.
  • the figure 2 represents the arc formation chamber and the interrupting chamber, in a view from above according to the arrow F2 of the figure 1 .
  • the reference 51 designates the magnetic field lines associated with the magnetic field created by the magnetic circuit 5.
  • R2 a central region of the arc-forming chamber, here delimited on both sides by geometric planes parallel to the plane P1 on either side of the contact 22 and extending along the axis Z1.
  • the central region R2 includes the contact areas 22 and 30. It has a prism shape, whose lower base is formed by a part of the upper surface of the electrical contact 21, and extends in height substantially parallel to the direction. vertical Z1.
  • R1 and R3 denote two lateral regions of the arc formation chamber which are arranged laterally on either side of the central region R2.
  • these lateral regions R1 and R3 are delimited laterally externally by the walls 31 and 32.
  • the regions R1 and R3 do not contain the contact zones 22 and 30.
  • the field lines 51 of the figure 2 are calculated by means of a finite element numerical simulation program, such as the software known under the trade name "Flux” and marketed by CEDRAT.
  • the magnetic circuit 5 here comprises a permanent magnet 50 and a ferromagnetic core 23 whose function is to guide at least in part the magnetic field created by the magnet 50.
  • the core 23 extends at least partly along the electrical contact 21, along the Y1 axis.
  • the walls 31 and 32 are part of the magnetic circuit 5 and participate in guiding the magnetic flux created by the magnet 50 in particular to obtain the spatial arrangement of the field lines 51.
  • the core 23 has a rectilinear bar shape that extends between the two straight portions of the electrical contact 21.
  • This core 23 is made here in the form of a ferromagnetic metal sheet stack.
  • the core 23 is formed by a single piece.
  • the magnet 50 is here fixed, for example by gluing, on one end of this piece 23, here on the end located opposite the U-shaped portion 20.
  • the magnet 50 is able to generate a magnetic field greater than or equal to 0.5 tesla or, preferably greater than or equal to 1 tesla and here has a magnetization magnetic axis M oriented parallel to the axis Y1.
  • the magnet 50 is a permanent magnet, for example made of a synthetic alloy containing an element of the rare earth family.
  • an alloy of Samarium-Cobalt is used.
  • the magnet 50 is surrounded by a protective shell made of a non-magnetic material, such as plastic.
  • the spacing between the magnet 50 and the end of the core 23 on which it is placed is less than or equal to 2 mm or, preferably, less than or equal to 1 mm, or even more preferably zero. that is, equal to 0 mm.
  • This spacing is here measured as being the distance between the adjacent edges of the magnet 50 and the end of the core 23.
  • the figure 6 represents the directions of the magnetic field created by the magnetic circuit 5 according to a view in the plane P2 from the breaking chamber 4.
  • the vector J is here parallel to the direction Z1.
  • the electromagnetic forces E1, E2 and E3 are Lorentz forces and are proportional to the vector product between the vector J and the magnetic induction, respectively, B1, B2 and B3 in the corresponding region R1, R2 or R3.
  • the forces E1 and E3 have directions parallel to the axis Y1 and are in opposite directions.
  • the force E2 is directed parallel to the axis X1.
  • an electric arc 6 when an electric arc 6 is formed between the contact zones 22 and 30, it undergoes a force E2 which directs it first to one of the lateral regions, in this case the lateral region R3. Due to the perpendicular orientation of the vector B3 with respect to the vector B2 and the direction of the vector J, the force E3 exerted on the electric arc 6, when it is located in the lateral region R3, is directed towards the inside the breaking chamber 4 and thus to the stack of cut plates 41. The electric arc 6 is moved to the chamber 4 by the force E3.
  • the figure 7 is analogous to the figure 6 and differs only in the direction of circulation of the electric current J in the electric arc 6, this direction being reversed with respect to that illustrated in FIG. figure 6 .
  • the force E2 exerted on the electric arc 6, when it is in the region R2 between the contact zones 22 and 30, is such that the electric arc 6 is displaced towards the lateral region R1 opposite to the lateral region R3.
  • the force E1 directs the electric arc 6 towards the breaking chamber 4.
  • the electric arc 6 is moved towards the breaking chamber 4 whatever the direction of flow of the electric current and whatever its value. intensity. Even if the intensity of the electric arc current 6 is small, the electric arc 6 will be moved in a region where the electromagnetic force E1 or E3 is sufficient to move it to the breaking chamber 4. The operation of the circuit breaker 1 is thus improved.
  • the magnetic circuit 5 can be realized differently.
  • the mobile part 3 is directly connected to the terminal 2 ', the second subassembly 1b then being omitted.

Abstract

Ce disjoncteur électrique (1) à courant continu comporte des premier (21 ; 21') et deuxième (3) contacts électriques déplaçables.This DC circuit breaker (1) has first (21; 21 ') and second (3) movable electrical contacts.

Le disjoncteur (1) comporte en outre un circuit magnétique (5) incluant un aimant (50, 50') et générant un champ magnétique apte à guider, en direction d'une chambre de coupure (4), un arc électrique et présentant à cet effet des lignes de champ recourbées s'étendant perpendiculairement à des parois latérales (31, 32) opposées d'une chambre de formation d'arc électrique, ces lignes de champ convergeant, au niveau d'une région centrale de la chambre de formation d'arc contenant les zones de contact, vers la chambre de de coupure (4) en s'étendant parallèlement au plan longitudinal (P1).

Figure imgaf001
The circuit breaker (1) further comprises a magnetic circuit (5) including a magnet (50, 50 ') and generating a magnetic field capable of guiding, in the direction of a breaking chamber (4), an electric arc and presenting this effect of curved field lines extending perpendicularly to opposite side walls (31, 32) of an arc-forming chamber, these field lines converging at a central region of the formation chamber of arc containing the contact areas, to the breaking chamber (4) extending parallel to the longitudinal plane (P1).
Figure imgaf001

Description

L'invention concerne un disjoncteur électrique à courant continu à coupure dans l'air présentant un pouvoir de coupure d'arc électrique amélioré.The invention relates to an electric breaker circuit breaker with air cutoff having an improved arc breaking capacity.

On connait des disjoncteurs électriques à courant continu et à coupure dans l'air, qui comportent des contacts électriques, reliés à des terminaux d'entrée et de sortie du courant électrique et étant sélectivement déplaçables l'un par rapport à l'autre entre une position fermée, dans laquelle des zones de contact respectives des premier et deuxième contacts électriques sont en contact l'une avec l'autre pour autoriser la circulation du courant électrique continu entre les premier et deuxième contacts électriques, et une position ouverte, dans laquelle ces zones de contact sont distantes l'une de l'autre.DC and air-interruptions electrical circuit breakers are known, which comprise electrical contacts, connected to input and output terminals of the electric current and being selectively movable relative to each other between a closed position, in which respective contact areas of the first and second electrical contacts are in contact with each other to allow the flow of direct electric current between the first and second electrical contacts, and an open position, in which these contact areas are distant from each other.

De façon connue, ces disjoncteurs permettent de protéger des systèmes électriques contre des conditions anormales, telles qu'une surintensité électrique ou un court-circuit, en interrompant rapidement la circulation du courant électrique lorsqu'une telle condition anormale est détectée. Par « rapidement », on entend que le courant électrique doit être interrompu en moins de 100ms ou, de préférence, moins de 10ms après la détection de la condition anormale.In a known manner, these circuit breakers make it possible to protect electrical systems against abnormal conditions, such as an electrical overcurrent or a short circuit, by rapidly interrupting the flow of electric current when such an abnormal condition is detected. By "fast" is meant that the electric current must be interrupted in less than 100ms or, preferably, less than 10ms after detection of the abnormal condition.

Pour interrompre la circulation du courant, les conducteurs sont éloignés l'un de l'autre vers leur position ouverte. Typiquement, un arc électrique se forme alors entre leurs zones de contact. Cet arc doit être éteint afin d'interrompre la circulation du courant électrique. En pratique, pour des courants électriques d'intensité élevée, par exemple supérieure à une dizaine d'ampères, l'arc électrique se déplace par soufflage en direction d'une chambre de coupure d'arc, où il est éteint, permettant ainsi d'interrompre la circulation du courant. Un tel effet de soufflage est en partie causé par une force électromagnétique exercée sur l'arc électrique, sous l'effet du champ magnétique créé par la circulation du courant électrique dans l'arc électrique lui-même. Toutefois, en présence d'un courant électrique d'intensité moindre, par exemple inférieur ou égal à dix ampères ou à un ampère, le champ magnétique généré par l'arc électrique lui-même n'est pas suffisant pour le déplacer par soufflage vers la chambre de coupure. L'arc électrique peut ainsi persister longtemps entre les deux zones de contact électriques. Ceci n'est pas souhaitable, car le disjoncteur n'interrompt pas rapidement la circulation du courant, ce qui peut causer une situation contraire à la sécurité.To interrupt the flow of current, the conductors are moved away from each other to their open position. Typically, an electric arc is formed between their contact zones. This arc must be off in order to interrupt the flow of electric current. In practice, for electric currents of high intensity, for example greater than about ten amperes, the electric arc is blown in the direction of an arc-breaking chamber, where it is extinguished, thus allowing interrupt the flow of the current. Such a blowing effect is partly caused by an electromagnetic force exerted on the electric arc, under the effect of the magnetic field created by the flow of electric current in the electric arc itself. However, in the presence of an electric current of less intensity, for example less than or equal to ten amperes or an ampere, the magnetic field generated by the electric arc itself is not sufficient to move it by blowing towards the breaking chamber. The electric arc can thus persist long between the two electrical contact zones. This is not desirable because the circuit breaker does not quickly interrupt the flow of current, which can cause a situation that is unsafe.

On connaît de FR 2 632 772 B1 un disjoncteur dans lequel un aimant permanent est disposé sur une corne d'arc en entrée de la chambre de coupure, de manière à générer un champ magnétique constant pour déplacer un arc électrique vers la chambre de coupure quelle que soit la valeur du courant électrique. Un tel dispositif ne donne cependant pas entière satisfaction et de plus est compliqué à réaliser industriellement et nécessite des modifications parfois importantes des disjoncteurs existants pour son intégration.We know FR 2 632 772 B1 a circuit breaker in which a permanent magnet is disposed on an arc horn at the inlet of the interrupting chamber, so as to generate a constant magnetic field for moving an electric arc towards the chamber cutoff regardless of the value of the electric current. Such a device, however, does not give complete satisfaction and more is complicated to produce industrially and requires sometimes significant modifications of existing circuit breakers for its integration.

On connaît également les dispositifs décrits dans les documents EP 2 980 821-A1 , DE 10 2014 015 061-A1 , US 2014/061160-A1 et US 2013/105444-A1 .The devices described in the documents are also known EP 2,980,821-A1 , DE 10 2014 015 061-A1 , US 2014/061160-A1 and US 2013/105444-A1 .

C'est à ces inconvénients qu'entend plus particulièrement remédier l'invention en proposant un disjoncteur électrique à courant continu et à polarité réversible et dans lequel un arc électrique puisse être interrompu de façon fiable même pour les faibles valeurs d'intensité de courants électriques, et pouvant être réalisé industriellement de façon simple.It is these drawbacks that the invention intends to remedy more particularly by proposing a reversible electric circuit breaker with reversible polarity and in which an electric arc can be reliably interrupted even for low values of electric current intensity. and can be made industrially in a simple manner.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un disjoncteur électrique à courant continu, comportant :

  • des premier et deuxième terminaux d'entrée et de sortie d'un courant électrique continu,
  • des premier et deuxième contacts électriques, reliés respectivement aux premier et deuxième terminaux et étant sélectivement déplaçables l'un par rapport à l'autre, dans un plan longitudinal du disjoncteur, entre :
    • une position fermée, dans laquelle des zones de contact respectives des premier et deuxième contacts électriques sont en contact l'une avec l'autre pour autoriser la circulation du courant électrique continu entre les premier et deuxième contacts électriques, et
    • une position ouverte, dans laquelle ces zones de contact sont distantes l'une de l'autre,
  • une chambre de formation d'un arc électrique, dans laquelle sont placées les zones de contact ;
  • une chambre de coupure d'un arc électrique.
For this purpose, the invention relates to a DC electric circuit breaker, comprising:
  • first and second input and output terminals of a continuous electric current,
  • first and second electrical contacts, respectively connected to the first and second terminals and being selectively movable relative to one another, in a longitudinal plane of the circuit breaker, between:
    • a closed position, in which respective contact areas of the first and second electrical contacts are in contact with each other to allow the flow of direct electric current between the first and second electrical contacts, and
    • an open position, in which these contact zones are distant from one another,
  • a chamber for forming an electric arc, in which the contact zones are placed;
  • a break chamber of an electric arc.

Le disjoncteur comporte en outre un circuit magnétique incluant un aimant et générant un champ magnétique qui est apte à guider, en direction de la chambre de coupure, un arc électrique se formant entre les zones de contact dans la position ouverte, le champ magnétique généré par le circuit magnétique présentant à cet effet des lignes de champ recourbées qui s'étendent essentiellement perpendiculairement à des parois latérales opposées de la chambre de formation d'arc électrique, ces parois latérales étant disposées de part et d'autre des zones de contact essentiellement parallèlement au plan longitudinal, ces lignes de champ convergeant, au niveau d'une région centrale de la chambre de formation d'arc contenant les zones de contact, vers la chambre de de coupure en s'étendant parallèlement au plan longitudinal, et l'aimant est apte à générer un champ magnétique supérieur ou égal à 0,5 Tesla, ou, de préférence, supérieur ou égal à 1 Tesla.The circuit breaker further comprises a magnetic circuit including a magnet and generating a magnetic field which is able to guide, in the direction of the breaking chamber, an electric arc formed between the contact zones in the open position, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic circuit having for this purpose curved field lines which extend substantially perpendicular to opposite side walls of the arc-forming chamber, these side walls being arranged on both sides of the contact zones substantially parallel longitudinally, these converging field lines, at a central region of the arc forming chamber containing the contact zones, towards the breaking chamber extending parallel to the longitudinal plane, and the magnet is capable of generating a magnetic field greater than or equal to 0.5 Tesla, or, preferably, greater than or equal to 1 Tesla.

Grâce à l'invention, le champ magnétique créé par l'aimant et par le circuit magnétique exerce une force sur l'arc électrique qui déplace d'abord ce dernier à l'écart des zones de contact électriques et perpendiculairement au plan longitudinal. Du fait de la configuration des lignes de champ magnétique, la force exercée sur l'arc électrique change alors de direction, de sorte à diriger ensuite l'arc électrique vers la chambre de coupure. Du fait de la configuration symétrique par rapport au plan longitudinal, l'arc électrique est déplacé vers la chambre de coupure quel que soit le sens de circulation du courant électrique dans le disjoncteur. De plus, le circuit magnétique est facilement intégrable à des disjoncteurs existants, sans leur imposer de modifications structurelles importantes.Thanks to the invention, the magnetic field created by the magnet and the magnetic circuit exerts a force on the electric arc which first moves the latter away from the electrical contact areas and perpendicularly to the longitudinal plane. Due to the configuration of the magnetic field lines, the force exerted on the electric arc then changes direction, so as to then direct the electric arc to the breaking chamber. Because of the symmetrical configuration with respect to the longitudinal plane, the electric arc is moved to the interrupting chamber irrespective of the direction of flow of the electric current in the circuit breaker. In addition, the magnetic circuit is easily integrated with existing circuit breakers, without imposing significant structural changes.

Selon des aspects avantageux mais non obligatoires de l'invention, un tel disjoncteur peut incorporer une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes, prises dans toute combinaison techniquement admissible :

  • Le circuit magnétique comporte en outre un noyau magnétique réalisé en matériau ferromagnétique et qui s'étend au moins en partie le long du premier contact électrique, l'aimant étant placé à une des extrémités du noyau magnétique.
  • L'aimant présente un axe magnétique orienté parallèlement à une direction longitudinale contenue dans le plan longitudinal.
  • L'espacement entre l'aimant et l'extrémité du noyau magnétique est inférieure ou égale à 2mm ou, de préférence, inférieure ou égale à 1 mm, ou encore de préférence nulle.
  • L'aimant est un aimant permanent.
  • L'aimant est réalisé dans un alliage synthétique contenant un élément de la famille des terres rares, par exemple un alliage de Samarium-Cobalt.
  • Le noyau magnétique est réalisé en acier ou en fer.
  • Les parois latérales sont réalisées en un matériau ferromagnétique.
According to advantageous but non-mandatory aspects of the invention, such a circuit breaker may incorporate one or more of the following features, taken in any technically permissible combination:
  • The magnetic circuit further comprises a magnetic core made of ferromagnetic material and which extends at least in part along the first electrical contact, the magnet being placed at one end of the magnetic core.
  • The magnet has a magnetic axis oriented parallel to a longitudinal direction contained in the longitudinal plane.
  • The spacing between the magnet and the end of the magnetic core is less than or equal to 2 mm or, preferably, less than or equal to 1 mm, or even preferably zero.
  • The magnet is a permanent magnet.
  • The magnet is made of a synthetic alloy containing an element of the rare earth family, for example a Samarium-Cobalt alloy.
  • The magnetic core is made of steel or iron.
  • The side walls are made of a ferromagnetic material.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages de celle-ci apparaitront plus clairement à la lumière de la description qui va suivre, d'un mode de réalisation d'un disjoncteur donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une représentation schématique selon une vue en perspective d'une portion interne d'un disjoncteur électrique à courant continu conforme à l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une représentation schématique, d'une portion du disjoncteur de la figure 1, selon la vue illustrée par la flèche F2 de la figure 1 ;
  • les figures 3 et 4 représentent schématiquement des lignes de champ magnétique créées par le circuit magnétique du disjoncteur de la figure 1, selon des vues en coupe longitudinale dans le plan P1 et transversale dans le plan P2 de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 5 est une représentation schématique d'une portion du disjoncteur de la figure 1, selon le plan de coupe P2 de la figure 1 ;
  • les figures 6 et 7 représentent schématiquement la direction d'une force électromagnétique exercée sur un arc électrique pour deux sens opposés de circulation du courant électrique dans le disjoncteur de la figure 1.
The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly in the light of the description which follows, of an embodiment of a circuit breaker given solely by way of example and made with reference to the drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic representation in a perspective view of an inner portion of a DC electric circuit breaker according to the invention;
  • the figure 2 is a schematic representation of a portion of the circuit breaker of the figure 1 , according to the view illustrated by the arrow F2 of the figure 1 ;
  • the Figures 3 and 4 schematically represent lines of magnetic field created by the magnetic circuit of the circuit breaker of the figure 1 , according to views in longitudinal section in the plane P1 and transverse in the plane P2 of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 5 is a schematic representation of a portion of the circuit breaker of the figure 1 , according to the P2 sectional plan of the figure 1 ;
  • the Figures 6 and 7 schematically represent the direction of an electromagnetic force exerted on an electric arc for two opposite directions of circulation of electric current in the circuit breaker of the figure 1 .

La figure 1 représente une partie d'un disjoncteur 1 à courant continu et à coupure dans l'air. Le disjoncteur 1 comporte ici un boîtier fermé, à l'intérieur duquel sont placés des composants de ce disjoncteur 1. Ce boîtier est par exemple réalisé en matière plastique thermoformée. Pour plus de clarté, le boîtier du disjoncteur 1 n'est pas représenté sur la figure 1.The figure 1 represents a part of a circuit breaker 1 DC and cut in air. The circuit breaker 1 here comprises a closed housing, inside which are placed components of this circuit breaker 1. This housing is for example made of thermoformed plastic material. For clarity, the circuit breaker 1 housing is not shown on the figure 1 .

Le disjoncteur 1 comporte des terminaux électriques 2 et 2' d'entrée et de sortie d'un courant électrique. Les terminaux 2 et 2' sont configurés pour raccorder électriquement le disjoncteur 1 à un circuit électrique qu'on souhaite protéger. Les terminaux 2 et 2' sont réalisés en un matériau électriquement conducteur, par exemple un métal tel que du cuivre. Ces terminaux 2 et 2' sont ici accessibles depuis l'extérieur du boîtier pour raccorder le disjoncteur 1 au circuit à protéger.The circuit breaker 1 comprises electrical terminals 2 and 2 'of input and output of an electric current. The terminals 2 and 2 'are configured to electrically connect the circuit breaker 1 to an electrical circuit that is to be protected. The terminals 2 and 2 'are made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal such as copper. These terminals 2 and 2 'are here accessible from outside the housing to connect the circuit breaker 1 to the circuit to be protected.

Dans cet exemple, les polarités du disjoncteur 1 sont réversibles, c'est-à-dire que les terminaux 2 et 2' peuvent alternativement et indifféremment servir de terminaux d'entrée ou de sortie du courant électrique dans le disjoncteur 1.In this example, the polarities of the circuit breaker 1 are reversible, that is to say that the terminals 2 and 2 'can alternately and indifferently serve as input or output terminals of the electric current in the circuit breaker 1.

Le disjoncteur 1 comporte ici deux sous-ensembles 1a et 1b chacun associés à un terminal 2, 2'. Le premier sous-ensemble 1a comporte les éléments suivants : un premier contact électrique 21 raccordé au terminal 2, une chambre de coupure d'arc 4 et un circuit magnétique 5. Le deuxième sous-ensemble 1 b comporte les éléments suivants: un contact électrique 21' raccordé au terminal 2', une chambre 4' de coupure d'arc et un circuit magnétique 5'.The circuit breaker 1 here comprises two subsets 1a and 1b each associated with a terminal 2, 2 '. The first subassembly 1a comprises the following elements: a first electrical contact 21 connected to the terminal 2, an arc breaking chamber 4 and a magnetic circuit 5. The second subassembly 1b comprises the following elements: an electrical contact 21 'connected to the terminal 2', a chamber 4 'of arc cutting and a magnetic circuit 5'.

Chacun de ces deux sous-ensembles 1a et 1b décrits fonctionne de façon analogue. Aussi, seul le premier sous-ensemble est décrit en détail dans ce qui suit.Each of these two subsets 1a and 1b described operates in a similar manner. Also, only the first subset is described in detail in the following.

Dans cet exemple, les éléments du deuxième sous-ensemble 1b sont identiques et ont une fonction analogue à ceux du premier sous-ensemble 1a. Les éléments du deuxième sous-ensemble 1b portent la même référence numérique que ceux du premier sous-ensemble 1 a, augmentée du symbole « ' ». Par exemple, le contact 21' est analogue au contact 21, et n'en diffère ici que par sa position dans le disjoncteur 1.In this example, the elements of the second subset 1b are identical and have a function similar to those of the first subset 1a. The elements of the second subassembly 1b bear the same reference number as those of the first subset 1a, plus the symbol "'". For example, the contact 21 'is analogous to the contact 21, and differs here only in its position in the circuit breaker 1.

Le disjoncteur 1 comporte en outre une partie mobile 3, déplaçable en rotation autour d'un axe fixe X1 du disjoncteur 1. Par exemple, la partie mobile 3 est montée pivotante autour d'un axe autour d'un arbre solidaire du boîtier du disjoncteur 1. La partie mobile 3 est ici électriquement conductrice entre des zones de contact 30 et 30' opposées.The circuit breaker 1 further comprises a mobile part 3, movable in rotation about a fixed axis X1 of the circuit breaker 1. For example, the mobile part 3 is pivotally mounted about an axis about a shaft integral with the circuit breaker housing 1. The mobile part 3 is here electrically conductive between contact zones 30 and 30 'opposite.

On note « P1 » un plan géométrique longitudinal du disjoncteur 1. Dans cet exemple, le plan P1 forme un plan de symétrie du disjoncteur 1. Ici, les éléments du disjoncteur 1 sont en outre disposés de façon symétrique par rapport à l'axe X1. L'axe X1 est perpendiculaire au plan P1. On note « Z1 » un axe géométrique perpendiculaire à l'axe X1 et contenu dans le plan P1 et qui définit ici une direction verticale.We denote "P1" a longitudinal geometric plane of the circuit breaker 1. In this example, the plane P1 forms a plane of symmetry of the circuit breaker 1. Here, the elements of the circuit breaker 1 are further arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis X1 . The axis X1 is perpendicular to the plane P1. We denote "Z1" a geometric axis perpendicular to the axis X1 and contained in the plane P1 and which defines here a vertical direction.

Le contact électrique 21 est pourvu d'une zone de contact 22 destinée à être mise en contact avec la zone 30 correspondante de la partie 3. Par exemple, les zones de contact 22 et 30 comportent chacune une pastille de contact électriquement conductrice, par exemple réalisée en un matériau métallique, tel que de l'argent ou du cuivre.The electrical contact 21 is provided with a contact zone 22 intended to be brought into contact with the corresponding zone 30 of the part 3. For example, the contact zones 22 and 30 each comprise an electrically conductive contact pad, for example made of a metallic material, such as silver or copper.

Le contact électrique 21 est raccordé électriquement au terminal 2, tandis que la partie mobile 3 est reliée électriquement au terminal 2', comme expliqué dans ce qui suit.The electrical contact 21 is electrically connected to the terminal 2, while the mobile part 3 is electrically connected to the terminal 2 ', as explained in the following.

Ici, le contact 21 est fixe par rapport au disjoncteur 1.Here, the contact 21 is fixed relative to the circuit breaker 1.

Dans cet exemple, le contact électrique 21 se présente sous la forme d'une barre réalisée en un matériau électriquement conducteur, par exemple en cuivre, qui s'étend parallèlement à un axe fixe Y1 du disjoncteur. L'axe Y1 s'étend ici longitudinalement par rapport au plan P1 et selon une direction horizontale. Dans cet exemple illustratif, le contact électrique 21 est formé d'un seul tenant avec le terminal 2. Plus précisément, la barre comporte deux portions droites superposées, s'étendant parallèlement l'une à l'autre selon l'axe Y1 et raccordées entre elles par une portion 20 de cette barre, cette portion 20 étant recourbée en forme de « U ». La zone de contact 22 est ménagée sur une des portions droites du contact électrique 21. La partie du terminal 2 destinée à être raccordée à l'extérieur est ménagée sur la portion droite opposée du contact électrique 21. Plus précisément, la zone de contact 22 est ménagée sur une partie supérieure du contact électrique 21 faisant face à la zone de contact 30 correspondante de la partie mobile 3.In this example, the electrical contact 21 is in the form of a bar made of an electrically conductive material, for example copper, which extends parallel to a fixed axis Y1 of the circuit breaker. The axis Y1 here extends longitudinally with respect to the plane P1 and in a horizontal direction. In this illustrative example, the electrical contact 21 is formed in one piece with the terminal 2. More precisely, the bar comprises two superimposed straight portions, extending parallel to each other along the axis Y1 and connected to each other. between them by a portion 20 of this bar, this portion 20 being curved in the shape of a "U". The contact zone 22 is formed on one of the straight portions of the electrical contact 21. The portion of the terminal 2 intended to be connected to the outside is formed on the opposite straight portion of the electrical contact 21. More specifically, the contact zone 22 is formed on an upper part of the electrical contact 21 facing the corresponding contact zone 30 of the mobile part 3.

La partie mobile 3 joue ici le rôle de contact électrique vis-à-vis du contact électrique 21.The moving part 3 here plays the role of electrical contact vis-à-vis the electrical contact 21.

La partie mobile 3 et le contact électrique 21 sont déplaçables l'un par rapport à l'autre, sélectivement et réversiblement entre des positions fermée et ouverte. Dans la position fermée, les zones de contact 22 et 30 sont en contact direct l'une avec l'autre pour autoriser la circulation du courant électrique entre la partie mobile 3 et le contact électrique 21. Dans la position ouverte, les zones de contact 22 et 30 sont distantes l'une de l'autre, ce qui empêche la circulation du courant électrique lorsqu'aucun arc électrique n'est présent entre les contacts 22 et 30. Par exemple, dans cette position ouverte, les zones de contact 22 et 30 sont distantes d'au moins 5 mm, de préférence au moins 15 mm.The movable portion 3 and the electrical contact 21 are movable relative to each other, selectively and reversibly between closed and open positions. In the closed position, the contact zones 22 and 30 are in direct contact with one another to allow the flow of electric current between the mobile part 3 and the electrical contact 21. In the open position, the contact zones 22 and 30 are spaced from each other, which prevents the flow of electric current when no electric arc is present between the contacts 22 and 30. For example, in this open position, the contact zones 22 and are at least 5 mm apart, preferably at least 15 mm apart.

Les flèches F1 illustrent le sens du déplacement de la partie mobile 3 depuis la position fermée vers la position ouverte.The arrows F1 illustrate the direction of movement of the movable portion 3 from the closed position to the open position.

Dans cet exemple, le déplacement de la partie mobile 3 entre les positions fermée et ouverte est réalisé selon le plan P1, c'est-à-dire que la trajectoire de la zone de contact 30 lors du déplacement est parallèle au plan P1. Dans la position ouverte, les zones de contact 21 et 30 sont essentiellement alignées le long d'un axe parallèle à l'axe Z1.In this example, the displacement of the movable portion 3 between the closed and open positions is carried out according to the plane P1, that is to say that the path of the contact zone 30 during the displacement is parallel to the plane P1. In the open position, the contact areas 21 and 30 are substantially aligned along an axis parallel to the axis Z1.

La partie 3 est ici reliée indirectement au terminal 2', par l'intermédiaire, notamment, du contact électrique 21' du deuxième sous-ensemble 1 b.Part 3 is here indirectly connected to the terminal 2 ', via, in particular, the electrical contact 21' of the second subassembly 1b.

On définit, de façon analogue, des positions ouverte et fermée de la partie mobile 3 par rapport au contact électrique 21'. Le contact électrique 21' s'étend ici selon un axe fixe Y1' parallèle à l'axe Y1.Similarly, open and closed positions of the movable part 3 are defined with respect to the electrical contact 21 '. The electrical contact 21 'here extends along a fixed axis Y1' parallel to the axis Y1.

Le disjoncteur 1 est agencé de telle façon que la partie 3 se trouve simultanément soit dans la position ouverte, soit dans la position fermée, vis-à-vis des contacts électriques 21 et 21'. Ainsi, par symétrie, le déplacement vers la position ouverte se fait simultanément pour chacun de ces deux sous-ensembles 1a et 1b. Lorsque la partie mobile 3 est dans la position fermée, le courant électrique peut circuler entre les terminaux 2 et 2' en passant par les zones de contact 21 et 21', par la partie mobile 3 et par leurs zones de contact respectives. Le déplacement de la partie mobile 3 vers sa position ouverte vise à empêcher la circulation de ce courant électrique entre les terminaux 2 et 2'. Lorsque la partie mobile 3 est dans la position ouverte, en l'absence d'arc électrique entre les zones de contact respectives des contacts électriques 21, 21' et la partie mobile 3, le courant électrique est empêché de circuler entre les terminaux 2 et 2'.The circuit breaker 1 is arranged such that the part 3 is simultaneously in the open position or in the closed position, vis-à-vis the electrical contacts 21 and 21 '. Thus, by symmetry, the displacement to the open position is done simultaneously for each of these two subsets 1a and 1b. When the movable portion 3 is in the closed position, the electric current can flow between the terminals 2 and 2 'through the contact areas 21 and 21', the movable portion 3 and their respective contact areas. The displacement of the movable portion 3 to its open position is intended to prevent the circulation of this electric current between the terminals 2 and 2 '. When the mobile part 3 is in the open position, in the absence of an electric arc between the respective contact zones of the electrical contacts 21, 21 'and the mobile part 3, the electric current is prevented from circulating between the terminals 2 and 2 '.

De façon connue, lorsque la partie mobile 3 est déplacée vers la position ouverte alors qu'un courant électrique circule entre les terminaux 2 et 2', il peut se former un arc électrique entre les deux zones de contact 22 et 30. Cet arc électrique permet au courant électrique de continuer à circuler et doit être éteint pour interrompre ce courant électrique.In known manner, when the movable portion 3 is moved to the open position while an electric current flows between the terminals 2 and 2 ', it can form an electric arc between the two contact zones 22 and 30. This electric arc allows the electric current to continue to flow and must be turned off to interrupt this electrical current.

Le disjoncteur 1 comporte également un circuit de déclenchement, non illustré, configuré pour déplacer automatiquement la partie mobile 3 vers la position d'ouverture lorsqu'une anomalie de fonctionnement est détectée, telle qu'une surintensité du courant électrique qui circule entre les terminaux 2 et 2'.The circuit breaker 1 also comprises a trip circuit, not shown, configured to automatically move the movable portion 3 to the open position when a malfunction is detected, such as an overcurrent of the electric current flowing between the terminals 2 and 2 '.

Par exemple, la chambre 4 est au moins en partie délimitée par des parois du boîtier du disjoncteur.For example, the chamber 4 is at least partially defined by walls of the circuit breaker housing.

De façon connue, la chambre de coupure 4 comporte un empilement de plaques de coupure d'arc 41, électriquement conductrices et superposées les unes avec les autres. Ces plaques sont destinées à éteindre l'arc électrique une fois que cet arc électrique a pénétré à l'intérieur de la chambre de coupure 4. Dans cet exemple, ces plaques sont identiques entre elles et présentent une forme plane, inscrite dans un quadrilatère est dans lesquelles est ménagée une incision essentiellement en forme de « V » sur un bord tourné vers les zones 22 et 30. L'empilement de plaques 41 est surmonté par une corne supérieure 43 d'arc disposée au-dessus d'une plaque 42 d'extrémité de l'empilement.In known manner, the breaking chamber 4 comprises a stack of arc cutting plates 41, electrically conductive and superimposed with each other. These plates are intended to extinguish the electric arc once this electric arc has penetrated inside the breaking chamber 4. In this example, these plates are identical to each other and have a flat shape, inscribed in a quadrilateral is in which is formed an incision substantially shaped "V" on an edge facing the areas 22 and 30. The stack of plates 41 is surmounted by an upper horn 43 of arc disposed above a plate 42 d end of the stack.

Dans cet exemple, le disjoncteur 1 comporte une chambre de formation d'arc. Cette chambre est, par exemple, au moins en partie définie par des parois internes du boîtier du disjoncteur 1. Les zones de contact 22 et 30 sont situées à l'intérieur de cette chambre de formation d'arc. La chambre de formation d'arc est en communication avec la chambre de coupure 4 et débouche à l'intérieur de celle-ci. La chambre de formation d'arc et la chambre de coupure 4 sont toutes deux remplies d'air.In this example, the circuit breaker 1 comprises an arc forming chamber. This chamber is, for example, at least partly defined by internal walls of the casing of the circuit breaker 1. The contact areas 22 and 30 are located inside this arc forming chamber. The arc forming chamber is in communication with the breaking chamber 4 and opens into the interior of the latter. Both the arc forming chamber and the breaking chamber 4 are filled with air.

On note « P2 » un plan géométrique perpendiculaire au plan P1 et s'étendant selon la direction Z1. Le plan P2 forme ici un plan de coupe longitudinale de la chambre de formation d'arc.We denote "P2" a geometrical plane perpendicular to the plane P1 and extending in the direction Z1. The plane P2 here forms a longitudinal sectional plane of the arc formation chamber.

A titre d'exemple, la chambre de formation d'arc présente une forme de prisme à base parallélépipédique dont des faces latérales parallèles au plan P1 sont formées par les parois latérales 31, 32.By way of example, the arc-forming chamber has a parallelepiped-shaped prism shape whose lateral faces parallel to the plane P1 are formed by the side walls 31, 32.

Dans cet exemple, le disjoncteur comporte en outre des parois latérales 31 et 32, qui délimitent des faces opposées de cette chambre de formation d'arc parallèlement au plan P1. Ici, les parois 31 et 32 présentent une forme essentiellement plane et parallèle au plan P1. Les parois 31 et 32 opposées sont disposées de part et d'autre des zones de contact 22 et 30 en se faisant face l'une avec l'autre. Par exemple, les parois 31 et 32 sont réalisées dans un matériau ferromagnétique, tel que de l'acier ou du fer.In this example, the circuit breaker further comprises side walls 31 and 32, which delimit opposite faces of this arc forming chamber parallel to the plane P1. Here, the walls 31 and 32 have a substantially flat shape and parallel to the plane P1. The walls 31 and 32 opposite are arranged on either side of the zones of contact 22 and 30 facing each other. For example, the walls 31 and 32 are made of a ferromagnetic material, such as steel or iron.

A titre d'illustration, les parois 31 et 32 sont placées chacune à une distance comprise entre 10 mm et 100 mm de la zone de contact 22, cette distance étant mesurée selon une direction parallèle à l'axe X1.By way of illustration, the walls 31 and 32 are each placed at a distance of between 10 mm and 100 mm from the contact zone 22, this distance being measured in a direction parallel to the axis X1.

Le circuit magnétique 5 est configuré pour générer un champ magnétique apte à guider, en direction de la chambre de coupure 4, un arc électrique 6 se formant entre les zones de contact 22 et 30 suite au déplacement, vers la position ouverte, de la partie mobile 3. Du fait de l'agencement des zones de contact 22 et 30 dans la position ouverte, l'arc électrique 6 s'étend essentiellement le long d'une direction parallèle au plan P1 et à l'axe Z1.The magnetic circuit 5 is configured to generate a magnetic field capable of guiding, in the direction of the breaking chamber 4, an electric arc 6 formed between the contact zones 22 and 30 following the displacement, towards the open position, of the part 3. Due to the arrangement of the contact zones 22 and 30 in the open position, the electric arc 6 extends substantially along a direction parallel to the plane P1 and to the axis Z1.

Tout ce qui est décrit en référence au circuit magnétique 5 s'applique également au circuit magnétique 5' vis-à-vis des éléments correspondants du sous-ensemble 1 b.All that is described with reference to the magnetic circuit 5 also applies to the magnetic circuit 5 'vis-à-vis the corresponding elements of the subset 1b.

La figure 2 représente la chambre de formation d'arc et de la chambre de coupure, dans une vue de dessus selon la flèche F2 de la figure 1. La référence 51 désigne les lignes de champ magnétique associées au champ magnétique créé par le circuit magnétique 5.The figure 2 represents the arc formation chamber and the interrupting chamber, in a view from above according to the arrow F2 of the figure 1 . The reference 51 designates the magnetic field lines associated with the magnetic field created by the magnetic circuit 5.

On note « R2 » une région centrale de la chambre de formation d'arc, ici délimitée de part et d'autre par des plans géométriques parallèles au plan P1 de part et d'autre du contact 22 et s'étendant selon l'axe Z1.We denote "R2" a central region of the arc-forming chamber, here delimited on both sides by geometric planes parallel to the plane P1 on either side of the contact 22 and extending along the axis Z1.

La région centrale R2 englobe les zones de contact 22 et 30. Elle présente ici une forme de prisme, dont la base inférieure est formée par une partie de la surface supérieure du contact électrique 21, et s'étend en hauteur essentiellement parallèlement à la direction verticale Z1.The central region R2 includes the contact areas 22 and 30. It has a prism shape, whose lower base is formed by a part of the upper surface of the electrical contact 21, and extends in height substantially parallel to the direction. vertical Z1.

On note « R1 » et « R3 » deux régions latérales de la chambre de formation d'arc qui sont disposées latéralement de part et d'autre de la région centrale R2. Ici, ces régions latérales R1 et R3 sont délimitées latéralement extérieurement par les parois 31 et 32. Les régions R1 et R3 ne contiennent pas les zones de contact 22 et 30."R1" and "R3" denote two lateral regions of the arc formation chamber which are arranged laterally on either side of the central region R2. Here, these lateral regions R1 and R3 are delimited laterally externally by the walls 31 and 32. The regions R1 and R3 do not contain the contact zones 22 and 30.

Le circuit magnétique 5 est conformé de telle sorte que :

  • dans les régions latérales R1 et R3, les lignes de champ 51 s'étendent essentiellement perpendiculairement aux parois latérales 31 et 32, et
  • dans la région centrale R2, les lignes de champ 51 s'étendent essentiellement parallèlement au plan P1 en convergeant vers la chambre de coupure 4. Par exemple, dans la région centrale, le flux magnétique est tel que le champ magnétique vu par l'arc est supérieur ou égal à 20 microTeslas.
Les figures 3 et 4 représentent ces lignes de champ 51 selon des vues dans les plans P1 et P2 respectivement.
La figure 5 représente la chambre de formation d'arc et la chambre de coupure 4 dans le plan de coupe P2, selon l'angle de vue illustré par la flèche F3 à la figure 1. La partie mobile 3 est illustrée dans la position ouverte.The magnetic circuit 5 is shaped such that:
  • in the side regions R1 and R3, the field lines 51 extend substantially perpendicular to the side walls 31 and 32, and
  • in the central region R2, the field lines 51 extend substantially parallel to the plane P1 converging towards the breaking chamber 4. For example, in the central region, the magnetic flux is such that the magnetic field seen by the arc is greater than or equal to 20 microTeslas.
The Figures 3 and 4 represent these lines of field 51 according to views in the planes P1 and P2 respectively.
The figure 5 represents the arc forming chamber and the breaking chamber 4 in the cutting plane P2, according to the angle of view illustrated by the arrow F3 at the figure 1 . The moving part 3 is illustrated in the open position.

Dans cet exemple, les lignes de champ 51 de la figure 2 sont calculées au moyen d'un programme de simulation numérique par éléments finis, tel que le logiciel connu sous la dénomination commerciale « Flux » et commercialisé par la société CEDRAT.In this example, the field lines 51 of the figure 2 are calculated by means of a finite element numerical simulation program, such as the software known under the trade name "Flux" and marketed by CEDRAT.

Le circuit magnétique 5 comporte ici un aimant permanent 50 et un noyau 23 ferromagnétique qui a pour fonction de guider au moins en partie le champ magnétique créé par l'aimant 50. Le noyau 23 s'étend au moins en partie le long du contact électrique 21, le long de l'axe Y1. Les parois 31 et 32 font ici partie du circuit magnétique 5 et participent au guidage du flux magnétique créé par l'aimant 50 notamment pour obtenir la disposition spatiale des lignes de champ 51.The magnetic circuit 5 here comprises a permanent magnet 50 and a ferromagnetic core 23 whose function is to guide at least in part the magnetic field created by the magnet 50. The core 23 extends at least partly along the electrical contact 21, along the Y1 axis. The walls 31 and 32 are part of the magnetic circuit 5 and participate in guiding the magnetic flux created by the magnet 50 in particular to obtain the spatial arrangement of the field lines 51.

Dans cet exemple, le noyau 23 présente une forme de barreau rectiligne qui s'étend entre les deux portions droites du contact électrique 21. Ce noyau 23 est réalisé ici sous la forme d'un empilement de tôles en métal ferromagnétique. En variante, le noyau 23 est formé par une pièce d'un seul tenant.In this example, the core 23 has a rectilinear bar shape that extends between the two straight portions of the electrical contact 21. This core 23 is made here in the form of a ferromagnetic metal sheet stack. Alternatively, the core 23 is formed by a single piece.

L'aimant 50 est ici fixé, par exemple par collage, sur une extrémité de cette pièce 23, ici sur l'extrémité située à l'opposé de la partie 20 en forme de U.The magnet 50 is here fixed, for example by gluing, on one end of this piece 23, here on the end located opposite the U-shaped portion 20.

L'aimant 50 est apte à générer un champ magnétique supérieur ou égal à 0,5 tesla ou, de préférence supérieur ou égal à 1 tesla et présente ici un axe magnétique d'aimantation M orienté parallèlement à l'axe Y1.The magnet 50 is able to generate a magnetic field greater than or equal to 0.5 tesla or, preferably greater than or equal to 1 tesla and here has a magnetization magnetic axis M oriented parallel to the axis Y1.

De préférence, l'aimant 50 est un aimant permanent, par exemple réalisé dans un alliage synthétique contenant un élément de la famille des terres rares. Ici, on utilise un alliage de Samarium-Cobalt. Avantageusement, l'aimant 50 est entouré par une carapace de protection réalisée dans un matériau amagnétique, tel que du plastique.Preferably, the magnet 50 is a permanent magnet, for example made of a synthetic alloy containing an element of the rare earth family. Here, an alloy of Samarium-Cobalt is used. Advantageously, the magnet 50 is surrounded by a protective shell made of a non-magnetic material, such as plastic.

Ici, l'espacement entre l'aimant 50 et l'extrémité du noyau 23 sur laquelle il est placé, est inférieur ou égal à 2 mm ou, de préférence, inférieur ou égal à 1 mm, ou encore de préférence nul, c'est-à-dire égal à 0 mm. Cet espacement est ici mesuré comme étant la distance entre les bords adjacents de l'aimant 50 et de l'extrémité du noyau 23. En réduisant autant que possible l'écart entre l'aimant 50 et cette extrémité du noyau 23, on diminue l'entrefer entre l'aimant 50 et le noyau 23, ce qui permet d'assurer une meilleure canalisation du flux magnétique généré par l'aimant 50.Here, the spacing between the magnet 50 and the end of the core 23 on which it is placed is less than or equal to 2 mm or, preferably, less than or equal to 1 mm, or even more preferably zero. that is, equal to 0 mm. This spacing is here measured as being the distance between the adjacent edges of the magnet 50 and the end of the core 23. By reducing as far as possible the gap between the magnet 50 and this end of the core 23, the distance between the magnet 50 and the end of the core 23 is reduced. gap between the magnet 50 and the core 23, which ensures a better channelization of the magnetic flux generated by the magnet 50.

La figure 6 représente les directions du champ magnétique créé par le circuit magnétique 5 selon une vue dans le plan P2 depuis la chambre de coupure 4.The figure 6 represents the directions of the magnetic field created by the magnetic circuit 5 according to a view in the plane P2 from the breaking chamber 4.

On note :

  • « B1 », « B2 » et « B3 » les vecteurs d'induction magnétique dans les régions, respectivement R1, R2 et R3 de la chambre de formation d'arc ;
  • « J » le vecteur densité de courant électrique associé à l'arc électrique 6 ;
  • « E1 », « E2 » et « E3 » la force électromagnétique exercée sur l'arc électrique 6 sous l'action du champ magnétique créé par le circuit magnétique 5, pour chacune de ces régions R1, R2 et R3.
We notice :
  • "B1", "B2" and "B3" the magnetic induction vectors in the regions, respectively R1, R2 and R3 of the arc formation chamber;
  • "J" the vector of electrical current density associated with the electric arc 6;
  • "E1", "E2" and "E3" the electromagnetic force exerted on the electric arc 6 under the action of the magnetic field created by the magnetic circuit 5, for each of these regions R1, R2 and R3.

Le vecteur J est ici parallèle à la direction Z1.The vector J is here parallel to the direction Z1.

Les forces électromagnétiques E1, E2 et E3 sont des forces de Lorentz et sont proportionnelles au produit vectoriel entre le vecteur J et à l'induction magnétique, respectivement, B1, B2 et B3 dans la région R1, R2 ou R3 correspondante. Dans cet exemple, du fait de l'orientation des lignes de champ 51 et de la direction du courant J, les forces E1 et E3 ont des directions parallèles à l'axe Y1 et sont de sens opposés. La force E2 est dirigée parallèlement à l'axe X1.The electromagnetic forces E1, E2 and E3 are Lorentz forces and are proportional to the vector product between the vector J and the magnetic induction, respectively, B1, B2 and B3 in the corresponding region R1, R2 or R3. In this example, because of the orientation of the field lines 51 and the direction of the current J, the forces E1 and E3 have directions parallel to the axis Y1 and are in opposite directions. The force E2 is directed parallel to the axis X1.

Ainsi, lorsqu'un arc électrique 6 se forme entre les zones de contact 22 et 30, il subit une force E2 qui le dirige d'abord vers une des régions latérales, en l'occurrence ici la région latérale R3. Du fait de l'orientation perpendiculaire du vecteur B3 par rapport au vecteur B2 et de la direction du vecteur J, la force E3 exercée sur l'arc électrique 6, lorsqu'il est situé dans la région latérale R3, est dirigée vers l'intérieur de la chambre de coupure 4 et donc vers l'empilement de plaques de coupure 41. L'arc électrique 6 est donc déplacé vers la chambre 4 par la force E3.Thus, when an electric arc 6 is formed between the contact zones 22 and 30, it undergoes a force E2 which directs it first to one of the lateral regions, in this case the lateral region R3. Due to the perpendicular orientation of the vector B3 with respect to the vector B2 and the direction of the vector J, the force E3 exerted on the electric arc 6, when it is located in the lateral region R3, is directed towards the inside the breaking chamber 4 and thus to the stack of cut plates 41. The electric arc 6 is moved to the chamber 4 by the force E3.

La figure 7 est analogue à la figure 6 et n'en diffère que par le sens de circulation du courant électrique J dans l'arc électrique 6, ce sens étant inversé par rapport à celui illustré à la figure 6. Dans ce cas, on constate que la force E2 exercée sur l'arc électrique 6, lorsqu'il est dans la région R2 entre les zones de contact 22 et 30, est telle que l'arc électrique 6 est déplacé vers la région latérale R1 opposée à la région latérale R3. Cependant, du fait de l'orientation relative du vecteur B1 par rapport au vecteur B2 et du fait du changement de signe du vecteur J par rapport au cas de la figure 6, la force E1 dirige l'arc électrique 6 vers la chambre de coupure 4.The figure 7 is analogous to the figure 6 and differs only in the direction of circulation of the electric current J in the electric arc 6, this direction being reversed with respect to that illustrated in FIG. figure 6 . In this case, it can be seen that the force E2 exerted on the electric arc 6, when it is in the region R2 between the contact zones 22 and 30, is such that the electric arc 6 is displaced towards the lateral region R1 opposite to the lateral region R3. However, because of the relative orientation of the vector B1 with respect to the vector B2 and because of the change of sign of the vector J with respect to the case of the figure 6 the force E1 directs the electric arc 6 towards the breaking chamber 4.

Ainsi, grâce au circuit magnétique 5, notamment du fait de la disposition spatiale des lignes de champ 51, l'arc électrique 6 est déplacé vers la chambre de coupure 4 quel que soit le sens de circulation du courant électrique et quelle que soit sa valeur d'intensité. Même si l'intensité du courant d'arc électrique 6 est faible, l'arc électrique 6 sera déplacé dans une région où la force électromagnétique E1 ou E3 est suffisante pour le déplacer vers la chambre de coupure 4. Le fonctionnement du disjoncteur 1 s'en trouve ainsi amélioré.Thus, thanks to the magnetic circuit 5, in particular because of the spatial arrangement of the field lines 51, the electric arc 6 is moved towards the breaking chamber 4 whatever the direction of flow of the electric current and whatever its value. intensity. Even if the intensity of the electric arc current 6 is small, the electric arc 6 will be moved in a region where the electromagnetic force E1 or E3 is sufficient to move it to the breaking chamber 4. The operation of the circuit breaker 1 is thus improved.

Le circuit magnétique 5 peut être réalisé différemment.The magnetic circuit 5 can be realized differently.

En variante, la partie mobile 3 est directement raccordée au terminal 2', le deuxième sous-ensemble 1 b étant alors omis.In a variant, the mobile part 3 is directly connected to the terminal 2 ', the second subassembly 1b then being omitted.

Les modes de réalisation et les variantes envisagés ci-dessus peuvent être combinés entre eux pour générer de nouveaux modes de réalisation.The embodiments and alternatives contemplated above may be combined with one another to generate new embodiments.

Claims (8)

Disjoncteur électrique (1) à courant continu, comportant : - des premier (2) et deuxième (2') terminaux d'entrée et de sortie d'un courant électrique continu, - des premier (21 ; 21') et deuxième (3) contacts électriques, reliés respectivement aux premier et deuxième terminaux et étant sélectivement déplaçables l'un par rapport à l'autre, selon un plan longitudinal (P1) du disjoncteur, entre : • une position fermée, dans laquelle des zones de contact (22, 30) respectives des premier et deuxième contacts électriques sont en contact l'une avec l'autre pour autoriser la circulation du courant électrique continu entre les premier et deuxième contacts électriques, et • une position ouverte, dans laquelle ces zones de contact sont distantes l'une de l'autre, - une chambre de formation d'un arc électrique (6), dans laquelle sont placées les zones de contact (22, 30) ; - une chambre de coupure (4) d'un arc électrique (6) ; le disjoncteur (1) étant caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte en outre un circuit magnétique (5) incluant un aimant (50, 50') et générant un champ magnétique qui est apte à guider, en direction de la chambre de coupure (4), un arc électrique (6) se formant entre les zones de contact (22, 30) dans la position ouverte, le champ magnétique généré par le circuit magnétique (5) présentant à cet effet des lignes de champ (51) recourbées qui s'étendent essentiellement perpendiculairement à des parois latérales (31, 32) opposées de la chambre de formation d'arc électrique, ces parois latérales étant disposées de part et d'autre des zones de contact (22, 30) essentiellement parallèlement au plan longitudinal (P1), ces lignes de champ (51) convergeant, au niveau d'une région centrale (R2) de la chambre de formation d'arc contenant les zones de contact (22, 30), vers la chambre de de coupure (4) en s'étendant parallèlement au plan longitudinal (P1), et en ce que l'aimant (50, 50') est apte à générer un champ magnétique supérieur ou égal à 0,5 Tesla, ou, de préférence, supérieur ou égal à 1 Tesla.Electric circuit breaker (1) with direct current, comprising: first (2) and second (2 ') input and output terminals of a direct electric current, first (21; 21 ') and second (3) electrical contacts, respectively connected to the first and second terminals and being selectively movable relative to each other, in a longitudinal plane (P1) of the circuit breaker, between: A closed position, in which respective contact areas (22, 30) of the first and second electrical contacts are in contact with each other to allow the flow of the direct electric current between the first and second electrical contacts, and An open position, in which these contact zones are distant from one another, an arc-forming chamber (6) in which the contact zones (22, 30) are placed; - a breaking chamber (4) of an electric arc (6); the circuit breaker (1) being characterized in that it further comprises a magnetic circuit (5) including a magnet (50, 50 ') and generating a magnetic field which is able to guide, in the direction of the breaking chamber (4 ), an electric arc (6) formed between the contact areas (22, 30) in the open position, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic circuit (5) having curved field lines (51) for this purpose which are extend substantially perpendicular to opposite side walls (31, 32) of the arc-forming chamber, said side walls being arranged on either side of the contact zones (22, 30) substantially parallel to the longitudinal plane ( P1), these field lines (51) converging, at a central region (R2) of the arc forming chamber containing the contact zones (22, 30), towards the breaking chamber (4) extending parallel to the longitudinal plane (P1), and in that the magnet (50, 50 ') is capable of generating a magnetic field greater than or equal to 0.5 Tesla, or, preferably, greater than or equal to 1 Tesla. Disjoncteur selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le circuit magnétique (5) comporte en outre un noyau magnétique (23, 23') réalisé en matériau ferromagnétique et qui s'étend au moins en partie le long du premier contact électrique (21), l'aimant (50, 50') étant placé à une des extrémités du noyau magnétique (23, 23').Circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnetic circuit (5) further comprises a magnetic core (23, 23 ') made of ferromagnetic material and which extends at least partly along the first electrical contact (21) the magnet (50, 50 ') being placed at one end of the magnetic core (23, 23'). Disjoncteur selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que l'aimant (50, 50') présente un axe magnétique orienté parallèlement à une direction longitudinale (Y1) contenue dans le plan longitudinal (P1).Circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that the magnet (50, 50 ') has a magnetic axis oriented parallel to a longitudinal direction (Y1) contained in the longitudinal plane (P1). Disjoncteur selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que l'espacement entre l'aimant (50, 50') et l'extrémité du noyau magnétique (23, 23') est inférieure ou égale à 2mm ou, de préférence, inférieure ou égale à 1 mm, ou encore de préférence nulle.Circuit breaker according to Claim 3, characterized in that the spacing between the magnet (50, 50 ') and the end of the magnetic core (23, 23') is less than or equal to 2 mm or, preferably, less than or equal to at 1 mm, or even preferably zero. Disjoncteur selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'aimant (50, 50') est un aimant permanent.Circuit breaker according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnet (50, 50 ') is a permanent magnet. Disjoncteur selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'aimant (50, 50') est réalisé dans un alliage synthétique contenant un élément de la famille des terres rares, par exemple un alliage de Samarium-Cobalt.Circuit breaker according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnet (50, 50 ') is made of a synthetic alloy containing an element of the rare earth family, for example a Samarium-Cobalt alloy. Disjoncteur selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le noyau magnétique (23, 23') est réalisé en acier ou en fer.Circuit breaker according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnetic core (23, 23 ') is made of steel or iron. Disjoncteur selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les parois latérales (31, 32) sont réalisées en un matériau ferromagnétique.Circuit breaker according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side walls (31, 32) are made of a ferromagnetic material.
EP17166705.8A 2016-04-15 2017-04-14 Dc electrical circuit breaker Active EP3232457B1 (en)

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KR102196740B1 (en) * 2019-04-05 2020-12-30 엘에스일렉트릭(주) Arc extinguishing unit for air circuit breaker for direct current
CN210722924U (en) * 2019-07-30 2020-06-09 伊顿电气有限公司 Electrode for circuit breaker and circuit breaker
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US20170301490A1 (en) 2017-10-19
FR3050311A1 (en) 2017-10-20
CN114220718A (en) 2022-03-22
CN114220718B (en) 2024-04-05
EP3232457B1 (en) 2021-01-06
US10176945B2 (en) 2019-01-08
FR3050311B1 (en) 2020-12-04
CN107301937A (en) 2017-10-27
ES2864005T3 (en) 2021-10-13

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