Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a recloser assembly including three modular recloser units operating under the control of a controller. The recloser units are interchangeable and are suitable for use in a three phase power distribution system where three phase tripping is desired or each recloser unit may be operated independently as in a single phase power distribution system. For use in a three phase system, a gang rod mechanically couples pivoting actuation levers extending from a solenoid switching assembly of each of the recloser units. The gang rod insures that all three switching assemblies open and close in unison, thus, each power is transmitted by all three recloser units or power is not transmitted by any of the three recloser units. For single phase power distribution operation, the gang rod is removed and the recloser units operate independently. Each recloser unit includes a cube shaped base, a tapered cylindrical support affixed to an upper surface of the base.

Abstract: An axial magnetic field high voltage vacuum interrupter for interrupting the flow of electrical current in high voltage electrical circuits has a housing with a vacuum therein and two switch contacts disposed within the housing. The switch contacts are movable with respect to each other between a first position in which they are in contact with each other and a second position in which they are separated from each other by a space sufficient to interrupt the current flow through them. One or both of the switch contacts comprise a plurality of helically coiled current-carrying bars, an electrically conductive stem portion conductively coupled to the helically coiled bars at one end, and an electrically conductive contact member conductively coupled to the helically coiled bars at another end. Each of the helically coiled bars has a first portion which extends radially outward from the stem portion and a second portion which is helically coiled about an axis substantially parallel with the stem portion.