Abstract: Electrical switching devices are disclosed that have pressure relief mechanisms to allow for the release of internal pressure within the switching device housing. The pressure within the housing can be caused by different events with one such event being internal arcing within the housing caused during operation of the housing's internal components. Is some cases the arcing can be caused during separation of the switching device contacts. The pressure relief mechanism allows for the high pressure to pass from the housing in a more controlled matter to minimize or prevent high pressure breach or rupture of the switching device housing. The pressure relief mechanisms are particularly applicable to switching devices with hermetically sealed housings. Many different pressure relief mechanisms can be used including rupture disks or engineered weak points in the switching device housing.

Abstract: Electrical switching devices are disclosed that have pressure relief mechanisms to allow for the release of internal pressure within the switching device housing. The pressure within the housing can be caused by different events with one such event being internal arcing within the housing caused during operation of the housing's internal components. Is some cases the arcing can be caused during separation of the switching device contacts. The pressure relief mechanism allows for the high pressure to pass from the housing in a more controlled matter to minimize or prevent high pressure breach or rupture of the switching device housing. The pressure relief mechanisms are particularly applicable to switching devices with hermetically sealed housings. Many different pressure relief mechanisms can be used including rupture disks or engineered weak points in the switching device housing.

Abstract: A circuit interruption device includes at least one constriction zone. The constriction zone provides for interference with arcing of an electrical signal. The device may include at least one expansion zone. The device may include at least one movable component to assist in creation of the at least one constriction zone. A method of fabrication is provided.

Abstract: A circuit interruption device includes at least one constriction zone. The constriction zone provides for interference with arcing of an electrical signal. The device may include at least one expansion zone. The device may include at least one movable component to assist in creation of the at least one constriction zone. A method of fabrication is provided.

Abstract: A circuit interruption device includes at least one constriction zone. The constriction zone provides for interference with arcing of an electrical signal. The device may include at least one expansion zone. The device may include at least one movable component to assist in creation of the at least one constriction zone. A method of fabrication is provided.

Abstract: A circuit interruption device includes at least one constriction zone. The constriction zone provides for interference with arcing of an electrical signal. The device may include at least one expansion zone. The device may include at least one movable component to assist in creation of the at least one constriction zone. A method of fabrication is provided.

Abstract: A locking plate for releasably securing a circuit breaker to a module includes a back portion for supporting a circuit breaker, legs connected to the back portion for releasably engaging a terminal of the circuit breaker and for releasably securing the locking plate to the circuit breaker and means for releasably securing the locking plate to a module. The legs may be angled to facilitate slidable engagement with the terminal of the circuit breaker. The locking plate may also include a flange for offsetting the circuit breaker from the module when the circuit breaker is mounted on the module. The locking plate may also include a handle guard for preventing a switch on the circuit breaker from inadvertently being toggled.