What is the difference between a vacuum circuit breaker and an SF6 circuit breaker?
What is the difference between a vacuum circuit breaker and an SF6 circuit breaker?
ANSWER:
A vacuum circuit breaker uses vacuum as the arc quenching medium, while an SF6 circuit breaker utilizes sulfur hexafluoride gas.
Vacuum circuit breakers are generally used for medium-voltage applications, and SF6 circuit breakers are often employed in high-voltage applications.
SF6 provides better arc-extinguishing properties, allowing for compact design and efficient interruption of high currents.
However, SF6 is a potent greenhouse gas, and its use is being scrutinized due to environmental concerns. Vacuum circuit breakers, being environmentally friendly, are considered an alternative in certain applications.
