Look Inside the Breaker Cabinet

Oct 16, 2024 | substations , breakers , Utilities

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WHAT ARE THE VITAL SIGNS UTILITIES ARE MONITORING ON A TYPICAL GAS INSULATED CIRCUIT BREAKER?

With 8 sensor inputs, 5 timing inputs, and an onboard ambient temperature sensor and supply voltage monitor, the Optimizer3 Circuit Breaker Monitor and its array of sensors deliver a complete diagnostics report of a circuit breaker’s performance. Click on each breaker cabinet component to see how.

CURRENT TRANSFORMER CURRENT TAPS

The Optimizer3 uses current transformer pickup coils to measure real-time current flow and monitor main interrupter contact wear based on fault current and arc duration.

AC/DC VOLTAGE SUPPLY

The Optimizer3 continuously monitors AC or DC voltage supply using voltage transducers to ensure the reliability of the breaker’s critical mechanisms.

BREAKER TIMING

Breaker travel timing parameters, crucial for assessing breaker health, are measured by the Optimizer3 through direct connections to the breaker's 52a and 52b switches.

TRIP & CLOSE COILS

The Optimizer3 tracks the idle condition, operation time of trip and close coils, and the time it takes for the trip and closing latch to function.

SPRING WINDING MOTOR

The Optimizer3 monitors the current draw and run time of the spring winding motor to detect issues with the motor or winding mechanism.

CABINET HEATERS

The Optimizer3 monitors AC current to ensure cabinet heaters prevent moisture inside the control cabinet and alert for potential failures.

SF6 GAS PRESSURE, DENSITY, & DEW POINT

The Optimizer3 uses sensors to monitor SF6 gas properties, detect leaks, and calculate the time before a low gas alarm, aiding in compliance with EPA regulations.

Learn more about how the INCON® Optimizer 3 provides comprehensive monitoring of various breaker components to ensure operational reliability and timely detection of potential issues in the updated Brochure.

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INCON® OPTIMIZER3 CIRCUIT BREAKER MONITOR

The INCON® Optimizer3 Circuit Breaker Monitor is an online continuous performance monitor for high voltage circuit breakers, designed to facilitate condition-based maintenance with real-time performance and health data.

With early detection of circuit breaker deficiencies, the Optimizer3 enables utilities to proactively address issues before they escalate, saving both time and resources while helping to boost reliability. Deploy maintenance with intelligence, defer offline testing, limit truck rolls, and lower overall maintenance costs with the Optimizer3

Extend Circuit Breaker Life

Defer or Eliminate Offline Testing

Employ Condition-Based Maintenance

LEARN MORE ABOUT OPTIMIZER3