| Abstract: | It is discussed to what extent tools, provided by modern information technology, reasonably improve the performance of high voltage circuit breakers in transmission systems of electric power. Controlled switching, properly applied, has a high potential to increase life expectancy of the breaker itself and of the adjacent equipment. Power quality can also be improved. The technical advantage of controlled switching is beyond doubt, although the economic benefits are not easily quantified. In terms of breaker intelligence, another very important aspect is condition diagnosis. In particular a model based diagnosis seems to point to the future. Condition diagnosis giving maintainance requirements and pre-warning of impending failures should facilitate the tasks of the operating personnel. As a conclusion it can be stated that more intelligence of circuit breakers would be useful. |
