Abstract: A contactor assembly includes a stationary contact, an arc contact, an arc arrestor, and a magnetic intensifier. The magnetic intensifier is constructed to be secured in generally close proximity to the stationary contact. During communication of power through the contactor assembly, the magnetic intensifier accentuates a magnetic field associated with the stationary contact and increases the magnitude of a magnetic force directed to the arc arrestor. A pair of arc guides extend along the magnetic intensifier and, cooperatively with the magnetic force, ensure efficient, repeatable, and expedient transfer of a circuit termination arc to the arc arrestor. Such a construction increases the operable range and lifecycle of the contactor by reducing the damage associated with propagation of the circuit termination arc.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a current switch magnetic intensifier that is constructed to be secured in generally close proximity to the stationary contact of the current switch. During termination of the communication of power through the contactor assembly, the magnetic intensifier accentuates a magnetic field associated with a stationary contact and increases the magnitude of a magnetic force directed to the arc arrestor. The intensifier is fitted proximate the stationary contact so that a pair of arc rails extend beyond the stationary contact such that a force of a magnetic field generated by the contactor magnetic intensified is directed in a common direction with a direction of reduced resistance of the pair of arc rails to ensure efficient, repeatable, and expedient transfer of a circuit termination arc to the arc arrestor.

Abstract: A contactor assembly includes a stationary contact, an arc contact, an arc arrestor, and a magnetic intensifier. The magnetic intensifier is constructed to be secured in generally close proximity to the stationary contact. During communication of power through the contactor assembly, the magnetic intensifier accentuates a magnetic field associated with the stationary contact and increases the magnitude of a magnetic force directed to the arc arrestor. A pair of arc guides extend along the magnetic intensifier and, cooperatively with the magnetic force, ensure efficient, repeatable, and expedient transfer of a circuit termination arc to the arc arrestor. Such a construction increases the operable range and lifecycle of the contactor by reducing the damage associated with propagation of the circuit termination arc.

Abstract: A gas diverter is disclosed that slows, cools, and directs the hot gas and plasma generated during the operation of an electrical switching device. The gas diverter mounts to the switching device and has an inlet for accepting the gas and exit for expelling the gas. The diverter has peripheral walls and internal partitions that divide the gas and provide for two independent circuitous flow paths. In multi-phase switching devices, a plurality of gas diverters may be used to further separate the gases generated in each respective phase. The gas diverter is made of a high temperature, arc resistant plastic which is molded to form a two piece structure. The gas diverter is mounted to the device via a slide in place flange-channel mechanism.

Abstract: A contactor assembly includes a stationary contact, an arc contact, an arc arrestor, and a magnetic intensifier. The magnetic intensifier is constructed to be secured in generally close proximity to the stationary contact. During communication of power through the contactor assembly, the magnetic intensifier accentuates a magnetic field associated with the stationary contact and increases the magnitude of a magnetic force directed to the arc arrestor. A pair of arc guides extend along the magnetic intensifier and, cooperatively with the magnetic force, ensure efficient, repeatable, and expedient transfer of a circuit termination arc to the arc arrestor. Such a construction increases the operable range and lifecycle of the contactor by reducing the damage associated with propagation of the circuit termination arc.

Abstract: A contactor assembly includes a stationary contact, an arc contact, an arc arrestor, and a magnetic intensifier. The magnetic intensifier is constructed to be secured in generally close proximity to the stationary contact. During communication of power through the contactor assembly, the magnetic intensifier accentuates a magnetic field associated with the stationary contact and increases the magnitude of a magnetic force directed to the arc arrestor. A pair of arc guides extend along the magnetic intensifier and, cooperatively with the magnetic force, ensure efficient, repeatable, and expedient transfer of a circuit termination arc to the arc arrestor. Such a construction increases the operable range and lifecycle of the contactor by reducing the damage associated with propagation of the circuit termination arc.

Abstract: A ball ratchet mechanism suitable for use with an electrical disconnect employs a track and drive surface that engage the ball so as to capture it without significant shear force being applied to ridges of the track. In this way, the shape of the track can be optimized for smooth ratcheting action without the risk of high torques shearing track ridges.

Abstract: A fuse block having a rotary operator communicating with a door-mounted knob provides a handle on the rotary operator for engaging the door handle to detect closure of the door. The handle includes first and second coupling mechanisms that control the connection between the handle and the operator depending on whether the door is open or closed. With the door closed power may be connected and disconnected. With the door open the handle may be used only to disconnect power.

Abstract: A switching apparatus is provided for a fuse block that is disposed in a cabinet. The switching apparatus enables a user to connect and disconnect the fuse block from its power source when the interior of the cabinet is accessed. Locking mechanisms are provided to prevent the power supply from being reconnected to the fuse block 50 until cabinet door is closed, and the switching apparatus is turned on.

Abstract: A fuse block having a rotary operator communicating with a door-mounted knob provides a sensor arm on the rotary operator for engaging the door handle to detect closure of the door. A slider may actuate a set of plates capturing a swing arm attached to the rotary operator preventing inadvertent movement of the rotary operator when the door is open.