VS1 Vacuum Circuit Breaker: The Gold Standard in Medium-Voltage...

VS1 Vacuum Circuit Breaker: The Gold Standard in Medium-Voltage Protection

Posted 2025-11-04 08:37:38

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The VS1 vacuum circuit breaker (VCB)is one of the most widely used and trusted medium-voltage (MV) switchgear solutionsglobally, renowned for its reliability, compact design, and exceptional arc-quenching performance. Developed primarily by Chinese manufacturers like Zhuzhou CSR Times Electricand adopted by global switchgear producers, the VS1 VCB is a workhorse for industrial, utility, and infrastructure applications.

This article explores the technical specifications, advantages, applications, and why the VS1 VCB remains a top choice for power system protection. We also highlight how Degatech Electricprovides high-quality VS1 VCBs with global certifications.

I. What is the VS1 Vacuum Circuit Breaker?

The VS1 VCBis a spring-operated, indoor-type vacuum circuit breakerdesigned for medium-voltage applications (12kV–40.5kV). It features:

✔ Vacuum interrupter technologyfor fast and reliable arc extinction.

✔ Spring mechanismfor consistent and durable operation.

✔ Compact and modular designfor easy installation in switchgear panels.

Key Specifications:

Voltage Range:12kV, 24kV, 36kV, 40.5kV
Breaking Capacity:20kA, 25kA, 31.5kA, 40kA
Mechanical Life:10,000–20,000 operations
Electrical Life:30,000–50,000 operations (depending on load)
Operating Mechanism:Spring-stored energy

II. Why VS1 VCBs Are Preferred Worldwide

1. Superior Arc Quenching in Vacuum

No risk of fire or explosion(unlike oil or SF₆ breakers).
Instantaneous arc extinction(microseconds response time).

2. High Reliability & Long Service Life

Minimal maintenance(no contact erosion in vacuum).
Up to 30,000 mechanical operationsbefore major servicing.

3. Compact & Space-Saving Design

Ideal for urban substations & industrial switchgear panels.
Easier installation & maintenancecompared to bulkier breakers.

4. Cost-Effective & Efficient

Lower total cost of ownership (TCO)than SF₆ or oil breakers.
Energy-efficient operationwith minimal losses.

5. Global Certifications & Compliance

IEC 62271-100, GB 1984, ANSI C37.06, DL/T 403.
Certified for global markets (Europe, Middle East, Asia, Americas).

III. Applications of VS1 VCBs

1. Industrial Power Distribution

Factories, mining, and manufacturing plants.
Protecting motors, transformers, and switchgear.

2. Utility Substations (12kV–40.5kV)

Distribution networks in cities & industrial zones.
Replacing aging oil or air breakers.

3. Renewable Energy Systems

Solar & wind farms (MV collection systems).

4. Commercial & Data Centers

Reliable power protection for critical IT infrastructure.

5. Marine & Offshore Platforms

Compact, explosion-proof designs.

IV. Advantages Over Other VCBs

Feature	VS1 VCB	Traditional Oil CB	SF₆ CB	Other Vacuum CBs
Arc Quenching	Vacuum (Best)	Oil (Fire Risk)	SF₆ (Greenhouse Gas)	Vacuum (Good)
Maintenance	Very Low	High	Moderate	Moderate
Safety	No Fire/Explosion	High Risk	Low Risk	No Fire
Environmental Impact	None	Oil Spills	SF₆ Emissions	None
Cost	Affordable	Moderate	Expensive	Competitive
Lifespan	20,000+ Ops	10,000–15,000 Ops	10,000–20,000 Ops	15,000–25,000 Ops