“Electrical isolators, also known as electrical disconnect switches or isolating switches, are devices used to physically disconnect electrical equipment or circuits from the power supply, thereby isolating them from the rest of the system. They are an essential component in electrical systems to ensure safety during maintenance, repair, and other operations.

How they work:
Electrical isolators work by providing an air gap or physical separation between the conducting elements of the circuit. When the isolator is open, it breaks the electrical continuity between the connected equipment and the power source. This prevents the flow of electrical current through the equipment, ensuring that it remains de-energized and safe to work on.

Key features of electrical isolators:

Open/Close Operation: Electrical isolators can be manually operated or motorized, allowing them to be opened and closed when required.

Non-Load Breaking: Electrical isolators are designed to be operated under no-load conditions. They are not intended for opening or closing a circuit under load, as it can lead to arcing and damage to the equipment.

Visible Open Position: Isolators typically have a visible open position, allowing operators to visually confirm that the equipment is disconnected from the power supply.

Materials used in electrical isolators:

Contacts: The contacts in the isolators are made of high-quality conductive materials, such as copper or silver, to ensure good electrical conductivity and minimize resistance.

Insulating materials: The isolator’s housing and components are made from high-grade insulating materials that can withstand the electrical stress and provide proper insulation between the contacts. Common materials used for insulators include ceramic, bakelite, and various plastics.

Operating Mechanism: The mechanism used for opening and closing the isolator can be made from durable metals, such as steel or aluminium, to ensure smooth and reliable operation.

Arc Quenching Devices: In some isolators, arc quenching devices are incorporated to extinguish any arcs that may occur when the contacts are opened. These devices can be based on various principles, like magnetic blowouts or arc chutes, to protect the contacts from damage due to arcing.

It’s important to note that electrical isolators are different from circuit breakers, as circuit breakers are designed to interrupt the current flow under both normal and fault conditions, while isolators are specifically intended for manual isolation and disconnection during maintenance activities.”