Abstract: An apparatus and method for interrupting the flow of electrical current in a line is disclosed. The invention provides for better limitation of current than can be achieved in the prior art. With effective current limitation, the magnetic force generated by the circuit breaker coil will not be excessive thereby reducing potential damage to the circuit breaker armature, increasing the interruption rating of the circuit breaker and end-use equipment and decreasing the interruption pressure within the circuit breaker.

Abstract: An arrangement in an electrical switching device for protection against electrical arcs comprises a tripping mechanism, a stationary contact carrier, a movable contact carrier, an exhaust vent, an arc runner, and an arc extinguishing barrier. The stationary contact carrier has a stationary contact mounted thereon, and the movable contact carrier has a movable contact mounted thereon. In response to an overcurrent condition, the tripping mechanism causes the movable contact carrier to rotate from a closed position to an open position, thereby generating an electrical arc. In the closed position the movable contact abuts the stationary contact, and in the open position the movable contact is separated from the stationary contact. The arc extinguishing barrier is composed of an outgassing material and is located between the stationary contact and a portion of the tripping mechanism.