Patent attributes
An electrical interrupter device for switching a short-circuit electrical current in an electric circuit is disclosed. The device comprises a vacuum evacuated housing (58); first and second electrodes (54, 56) at least partially located within the housing. The first and second electrodes (54, 56) are separated by a rail gap. A third electrode (52) moveable relative to the first and second electrodes (54, 56) between a closed circuit position and an open circuit position is provided, whereby an electrical arc is generated between the third electrode (52) and at least one of the first and second electrodes (54, 56) during said movement. Once generated, the arc is directed by the first and second electrodes (54, 56) away from the third electrode (52).
