Abstract: A multi-pole vacuum switch which has, for each vacuum switching tube, a pole operating unit with a lever arrangement for changing the direction of movement produced by a drive device. Two toggle levers are arranged in a casing of the pole operating unit. A first toggle lever is connected to the operating plunger of the vacuum switching tube and the second toggle lever is connected to a supporting lever. The supporting lever acts on a contact pressure spring via a pull rod. In the switched-on position (where the switch is closed), the first and second toggle levers are close to dead center. An adjustment device permits the toggle levers to be adjusted relative to the supporting lever.

Abstract: A disconnect switch for high-voltage installations is disclosed. The switch includes a pair of hollow contacts, one of which is movable, disposed in a grounded metallic housing filled with compressed gas. A spring-loaded contact-breaking pin is provided in one of the hollow contacts. The pin is provided at its free end with a recess which is engaged in the "on" position of the switch by a ratchet device pivotally disposed in the other contact. During movement of the movable contact toward the "off" position of the switch, the contact-breaking pin remains in contact with the ratchet device. The mechanically controlled ratchet device releases the contact-breaking pin at a given position of the movable contact. The contact-breaking pin is then returned by its spring into its hollow contact with a velocity greater than that of the movable contact.