Abstract
The scientific article proposes the principle of layout and operation of the protection, which is resource-saving and constantly monitoring the serviceability of its elements. The purpose is to protect the compartments of the cells of complete switchgear (switchgear), voltage 10 kV . and above from internal damage leading to the occurrence of electric arcs, as well as from external short circuits - protection against overcurrent in electrical installations connected to it. It is safe to say that all of the above presented in combination offers a new approach to relay protection. The uniqueness is the implementation of fast-acting protection against arc faults and overcurrent based on photodiodes, thermoresistors and magnetically controlled contacts that react to changes in illumination and temperature inside the various compartments of the cell. The use of the presented protection increases the reliability of relay protection of both the cell itself and electrical installations connected to it. The proposed protection is applicable to all series of cells, indoor and outdoor installations.