Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a magnetic actuator in a power switching device by transmitting at least two different electrical current waveforms to the actuator. Both waveforms are sent to the actuator from a controller in the same direction to move an actuator's armature from a first position to a second position. The first current waveform causes the armature to move from the first position to the second position. The second waveform is transmitted to the actuator to keep the armature moving towards the second position without overdriving the armature.

Abstract: A power switching device for use in a power distribution network has a conductive element that is shaped in a non-cylindrical form. The non-cylindrical shape of the conductive element allows the non-conductive material such as epoxy that is used to form the body of the device to securely fasten the conductive element in place to thereby keep the conductive element from rotating when excessive rotational force is applied to the conductor. The conductive element can be shaped with a protrusion or in a C-shape. The protrusion and C-shape help prevent rotation of the conductive element when a threaded bolt is applied to secure a power cable to one end of the conductive element.

Abstract: A method for determining an electrical current value using at least two current sensing circuits. One current sensing circuit is provided if the current value is below a switching threshold. The other current sensing is provided if the current value is above a switching threshold. Both current sensing circuits having a processing means to process the current signal and a determining means to determine the value of the current signal.

Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator is provided that comprises a housing, a solenoid coil, and an armature. The armature is movably disposed in an interior cavity defined by the housing. Irregular gaps are formed between the armature and the housing to increase the initial force of the actuator and to improve the latching force of the actuator after the actuator has been actuated.

Abstract: A presently-preferred capacitor discharge system for a circuit breaker adapted for use in a switchgear enclosure comprises a capacitor discharge circuit adapted to be electrically coupled to the capacitor, and a contact switch electrically coupled to the capacitor discharge circuit and adapted to be mechanically coupled to a support truck of the circuit breaker. The contact switch is movable between a first and a second position. The system also comprises a resistor electrically coupled to the capacitor discharge circuit, and a lever arm adapted to be rigidly coupled to a racking mechanism of the circuit breaker and adapted to urge the contact switch into the closed position when a locking arm of the racking mechanism disengages from the switchgear enclosure. The capacitor discharge system is adapted to electrically couple the capacitor and the resistor when the contact switch is in the second position thereby discharging the capacitor.

Abstract: A device and method for filtering high frequency transients from medium and high voltage conductors is disclosed. The device for filtering medium voltage and high voltage conductors comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface and a material located between the interior surface and the exterior surface. The material filters the medium voltage and/or high voltage conductors by passing signals in a first frequency range and impeding signals in a second frequency range.

Abstract: A presently-preferred capacitor discharge system for a circuit breaker adapted for use in a switchgear enclosure comprises a capacitor discharge circuit adapted to be electrically coupled to the capacitor, and a contact switch electrically coupled to the capacitor discharge circuit and adapted to be mechanically coupled to a support truck of the circuit breaker. The contact switch is movable between a first and a second position. The system also comprises a resistor electrically coupled to the capacitor discharge circuit, and a lever arm adapted to be rigidly coupled to a racking mechanism of the circuit breaker and adapted to urge the contact switch into the closed position when a locking arm of the racking mechanism disengages from the switchgear enclosure. The capacitor discharge system is adapted to electrically couple the capacitor and the resistor when the contact switch is in the second position thereby discharging the capacitor.

Abstract: A presently-preferred embodiment of a circuit breaker comprises a contact mechanism adapted to be electrically coupled to an electrical circuit. The contact mechanism comprises a first contact member and a second contact member being movable in relation to the first contact member. The circuit breaker also comprises an actuator mechanism comprising an armature mechanically coupled to the second contact member. The armature is selectively positionable between a closed position in which the armature urges the second contact member into electrical contact with the first contact member thereby permitting energization of the electrical circuit, and an open position in which the armature urges the second contact member away from the first contact member thereby inhibiting energization of the electrical circuit.