Electricity Today T&D Magazine

The 25 kV Class 200 Ampere loadbreak separable insulated connector system didn't always have today's reputation for safety and reliability. As 25 kV Class loadbreak connectors increased in popularity in the 1980's and 1990's, utilities reported unacceptably high numbers of flashovers during energized switching operations. These line-to-ground faults were more likely to occur in colder weather, at higher altitudes, with lower load currents, and with stuck interfaces. The partial vacuum induced flashovers were not seen in 15 kV Class...