FAQ

An electrical circuit breaker is an automatic device that interrupts the flow of current when specific conditions exist to protect people and the other electrical elements connected to it.
Unlike fuses, which can only be used once, a breaker or electrical switch can be rearmed once the problem that caused its activation has been resolved.

The main types of electrical circuit breakers are:

• Thermal – An electrotechnical device capable of interrupting an electrical circuit in the event of overcurrent due to an overload, but it must be accompanied by a fuse for protection against short circuits.
• Magnetic – An automatic device that can help prevent short circuits by interrupting the flow of electrical energy in the event of a malfunction, or excessively high intensity or load on the conductors. It is often sold together with the residual current circuit breaker (RCD/GFCI), which provides protection against electrocution risks in case of contact with the electrical current of the system.
• Thermal-Magnetic (Molded Case Circuit Breaker) – This device is responsible for interrupting the current flow when a predefined limit is exceeded. It protects the rest of the installation and connected equipment from possible overloads or short circuits.
• Residual Current (Differential) – This device is responsible for protecting people from potential electric shocks. It works in conjunction with the grounding of all installation elements.

The lifespan of medium voltage circuit breakers, which can exceed 20 years, depends on how the system is used, the possibility of carrying out regularmaintenance activities, and the availability of the spare parts needed to resolve issues arising from normal wear and tear.

Over time, products undergo numerous modifications that influence interruption techniques and innovate components, introducing new materials or modifying construction technologies. All of this can lead to the unavailability of spare parts and the impossibility of guaranteeing the correct functioning of the equipment.

Diagnostic examination is a recommended practice for circuit breakers characterized by high operational continuity or those operating in demanding conditions. The examination allows for the identification of any faults or functional anomalies, with limited outage time. Furthermore, its use certifies the status of the systems after medium voltage circuit breaker maintenance interventions are concluded.

Thermography is a technique used in industrial maintenance, particularly in the electrical sector, to detect potential anomalies that risk causing interruptions, while the system is in service and without direct contact. Thermographic inspection allows for the controlled planning of maintenance programs and – if used periodically over time – it can significantly reduce operating costs, operational faults, and sudden shutdowns. In the electrical sector, thermography can be applied to all types of industrial and civil systems, from production to distribution in overhead lines.

To meet the needs of our clientele in national and international markets, we supply spare parts for obsolete circuit breakers from the brands VOR, ABB, Schneider, and Magrini.

We carry out scheduled preventive maintenance aimed at minimizing the occurrence of electrical emergencies. Through an accurate system inspection plan, we work to identify and resolve potential faults before they can cause irreparable damage. The medium voltage circuit breaker maintenance service is performed following operating procedures controlled by the ISO 9001:2008 quality system.

Our personnel have attended dedicated courses for performing live working in accordance with the CEI 11-27 Standard and Article 82 of Legislative Decree 81/08. Furthermore, operators have followed specific training paths for supervisors and personnel involved in MV electrical substation maintenance according to the CEI 78-17: 2015 Standard. The personnel are also qualified for the recovery of SF6 fluorinated gas for high-voltage switches – Article 8 of Presidential Decree no. 43/2012 in accordance with Regulation (EC) no. 305/2008.