Abstract: A transient reducing capacitor switching device that switches grounded capacitors into a multi-phase power line, wherein each phase of the line carries an AC voltage signal that cycles its polarity. A first switch is associated with a first grounded capacitor, a second switch is associated with a second grounded capacitor and a third switch is associated with a third grounded capacitor. A switch controller switches the first capacitor into the first phase of the power line substantially when the voltage signal in the first phase crosses zero potential. The switch controller has a delay that delays at least one-quarter of one cycle after the first capacitor was switched into the first phase, then switches the second capacitor into the second phase of the line substantially when the voltage signal in the second phase crosses zero potential.

Abstract: An improved puffer-type compressed-gas circuit interrupter includes a stationary tubular contact and a movable contact structure operably engageable with the stationary contact when the circuit interrupter is closed. A hollow nozzle directs a blast of compressed gas into the arc established between the stationary contact and the movable contact during opening. The nozzle in the interior thereof has a neck portion of predetermined diameter for directing the blast of compressed gas into the arc. The stationary contact has venting apertures therein of predetermined size and shape with at least a portion of the venting aperture means being within a predetermined section of the stationary contact. The stationary contact section has a length measured along the axis of the stationary contact equal to about three times the inside diameter of the stationary contact.

Abstract: An improved circuit interrupter for high voltage and low current provides reactor and capacitor switching functions with fewer serial interrupters. Improved electrical field configuration is provided by moving and stationary contact shields, surrounding the main contacts, which aid the plain break operation of the device by elimination of critical points of dielectric stress. The plain break feature provides less mechanical complexity and consequent higher reliability.