Circuit breakers are designed to stop the flow of electricity under certain conditions, usually during situations like an overcurrent or short circuit or to direct the flow of the system. A circuit breaker is made up of contacts that will separate when a problem occurs. Stopping the flow of electricity keeps conditions safe and prevents damage to equipment.

Air circuit breakers operate using pressurized air. As the breaker trips, the contacts will separate, creating an arc. ACBs eliminate the arc, keeping the current steady and safe. ACBs are an alternative to oil circuit breakers, which are not as safe. It’s also important not to confuse ACBs with vacuum circuit breakers, which extinguish the arc using a vacuum. A VCB is the better choice for indoor, high-voltage use, while an ACB is better for industrial settings.

In an ACB, when the contacts separate – due to overcurrent, short circuit or for operating purposes – the ACB works to eliminate the arc, making the equipment safer. The ACB uses a combination of air pressure and conductive elements to guide the arc away from the circuit safely and then stretches it until it is eliminated.