Medium voltage products

Vmax
Medium voltage vacuum circuit-breakers
IEC: ... 17.5 kV; ... 1250 A; ... 31.5 kA
ANSI: ... 15 kV; ... 1200 A; ... 31.5 kA
Contents

2 1. Description

10 2. Selection and ordering

24 3. Specific product characteristics

28 4. Overall dimensions

33 5. Electric circuit diagram

1
1. Description

• Vacuum breaking technique

• Contacts in a vacuum protected against oxidation and contamination
• Operation under different climatic conditions
• Limited switching energy
• Stored energy operating mechanism with anti-pumping device supplied as
standard
• Simple customization with a complete range of accessories
• Fixed and withdrawable version
• Compact dimensions
• Sealed-for-life vacuum interrupters
• Sturdiness and reliability
• 10,000 operations with regular maintenance
• Circuit-breaker racking-in and racking-out with the door closed
• Incorrect and hazardous operations prevented thanks to special locks in the
operating mechanism and in the truck

General information Current breaking in vacuum

The new Vmax circuit-breakers are the synthesis of ABB’s The vacuum circuit-breaker does not require an interrupting
affirmed technology in designing and constructing vacuum and insulating medium. In fact, the interrupter does not
interrupters and their excellence in design, engineering and contain ionizable material.
production of circuit-breakers. In any case, on separation of the contacts an electric arc
The Vmax medium voltage circuit-breakers consist of an is generated, made up exclusively of melted and vaporised
insulating monobloc in which three vacuum interrupters are contact material.
housed. The electric arc only remains supported by the external energy
The monobloc and operating mechanism are fixed to a frame. until the current is cancelled by passing through natural zero.
The vacuum interrupter houses the contacts and makes up At that instant, the rapid reduction in the load density
the interrupting chamber. carried and fast condensation of the metallic vapor, leads to
extremely rapid recovery of the dielectric properties.
The vacuum interrupter therefore recovers the insulating
capacity and the capacity to withstand the transient recovery
voltage, definitively extinguishing the arc.
Since high dielectric strength can be reached in the vacuum,
even with minimum distances, circuit breaking is also
guaranteed when separation of the contacts takes place
a few milliseconds before passage of the current through
natural zero.

2
 Push-buttons and mechanical indicators for IEC versions

Vmax/L according to IEC STDs Push-buttons and mechanical indicators for ANSI versions

The special geometry of the contacts and the material used, Structure
together with the limited duration and low voltage of the arc The operating mechanism, monobloc and interrupters are
guarantee minimum contact wear and long life. Furthermore, fixed to a metal frame which is also the support for the fixed
the vacuum prevents their oxidation and contamination. version of the circuit-breaker.
The compact structure ensures sturdiness and mechanical
EL type operating mechanism reliability.
The low speed of the contacts, together with the reduced Apart from the isolating contacts and the cord with plug for
run, and the mass contained, limit the energy required for the connection of the auxiliary circuits, the withdrawable version
operation and therefore guarantee extremely limited wear of is completed with the truck for racking it into and out of the
the system. This means the circuit-breaker requires limited switchgear with the door closed.
maintenance.
The Vmax circuit-breakers use a mechanical operating Versions available
mechanism, with stored energy and free release. These
Vmax circuit-breakers are available in the fixed and
characteristics allow opening and closing operations
withdrawable version with front operating mechanism.
independent of the operator. The mechanical operating
The withdrawable version is available for UniGear ZS1
mechanism is of simple concept and use and can be
switchgear with 550 mm width, and for PowerCube modules
customized with a wide range of easily and rapidly installed
with 600 mm width. A specific fixed version is available for
accessories. This simplicity translates into greater reliability of
UniGear 500R switchgear.
the apparatus.
Note: all the above mentioned switchgear only complies with
IEC Standards.

3
1. Description

Breaking principle of ABB interrupters As the interrupted current value increases (above the rated
value), the electric arc tends to be transformed from the
In a vacuum interrupter, the electric arc starts at the instant of
diffuse into the contracted type, due to the Hall effect.
separation of the contacts, is maintained until the next current
Starting at the anode, the arc contracts and as the current
through zero and can be influenced by the magnetic field.
rises further it tends to concentrate.
In the area involved there is an increase in temperature
Diffuse or contracted vacuum arcs with consequent thermal stress on the contact. To prevent
Following contact separation, single melting points form on overheating and erosion of the contacts, the arc is kept
the surface of the cathode, producing metal vapors which rotating. With arc rotation it becomes similar to a moving
support the arc. conductor which the current passes through.
The diffuse vacuum arc is characterized by expansion over
the contact surface and by an even distribution of the thermal Spiral geometry of ABB vacuum interrupter contacts
stress.
The special spiral geometry of the contacts generates a radial
At the rated current of the vacuum interrupter, the electric arc
magnetic field in all areas of the arc column, concentrated
is always of the diffuse type. Contact erosion is very limited,
over the circumferences of the contacts.
and the number of interruptions very high.

Diffuse arc Contraction over the anode Contraction over the anode
and cathode

Schematic diagram of the transition from a diffuse to a contracted arc in a vacuum interrupter. Radial magnetic field contact pattern with an arc
rotating in a vacuum.

4
An electromagnetic force is self-generated and acts
tangentially, causing rapid arc rotation around the contact
axis.
This means the arc is forced to rotate and to involve a wider
surface than that of a fixed contracted arc. 1
Apart from minimizing thermal stress on the contacts, all this
makes contact erosion negligible and, above all, allows the 2
breaking process to be controlled even with very high short-
circuit currents. 3
ABB vacuum interrupters are zero-current interrupters and are
free of any re-striking. 4
Rapid reduction in the current charge and rapid condensation
of the metal vapors simultaneously with the zero current, 5
means maximum dielectric strength can be restored between
the interrupter contacts within microseconds.
6

9
Short-circuit
current
Current, Voltage

10
Arc voltage
System
voltage
Short-circuit current
breaking

1 Terminal
Time 2 Twist protection
Contact 3 Metal bellows
separation 4 Interrupter housing
5 Shield
Recovery voltage 6 Ceramic insulator
(system frequency) 7 Shield
8 Contacts
Transient recovery (TRV) 9 Terminal
(high frequency) 10 Interrupter housing

Development of current and voltage trends during a single-phase vacuum breaking process. Vacuum interrupter

5
1. Description

Fields of application
Vmax circuit-breakers are used in electrical distribution to
protect cables, distribution and transformer substations,
motors, transformers, generators and capacitor banks.

Standards and approvals

Vmax circuit-breakers comply with the IEC 62271-100,
CEI-EN 62271 (file 7642), ANSI/IEEE C37.54-C37.09-
C37.04-C37.55 Standards and with those of the major
industrialized countries. The Vmax circuit-breakershave
undergone the tests indicated below and guarantee safety
and reliability of apparatus in service in all installations.

• Type tests: heating, insulation withstand at power

frequency, atmospheric impulse withstand insulation, short-
time and peak withstand current, mechanical life, making
capacity and breaking capacity.

• Individual tests: insulation of main circuits with voltage

at power frequency, auxiliary and control circuit insulation,
measurement of main circuit resistance, mechanical and
electrical operation.

Service safety
Thanks to the complete range of mechanical and electrical
locks (available on request), safe distribution switchgear can
be built with Vmax circuit-breakers.
The locking devices have been studied to prevent incorrect
operations and to carry out inspection of the installations,
ensuring maximum operator safety. Key locks or padlock
devices enable opening and closing operations and/or racking
in and racking out.
The racking-out device with the door closed only allows the
circuit-breaker to be racked into or out of the switchgear with
the door closed.
Anti-racking-in locks prevent circuit-breakers with different
rated currents from being racked in, and the racking-in
operation with the circuit-breaker closed.

6
Accessories Operating mechanism
The Vmax circuit-breakers have a complete range of The operating mechanism of Vmax circuit-breakers is of
accessories to satisfy all installation requirements. simple concept and use and can be customized with a
The operating mechanism has a standardized range of wide range of easily and rapidly installed accessories. This
accessories and spare parts which are easy to identify and simplicity translates into greater reliability of the apparatus.
order. The accessories are installed conveniently from the The operating mechanism is of the stored energy type with
front of the circuit-breaker. Electrical connection is carried out the anti-pumping device mounted as standard and it is fitted
with plug-socket connectors. with suitable locks to prevent incorrect operations.
Use, maintenance and service of the apparatus are simple Each operation sequence is only enabled if all the conditions
and require limited use of resources. ensuring it will be carried out correctly are respected.
The accessories are the same for all the types of Vmax
circuit-breakers. To facilitate assembly and replacement of
accessories, assembly seats with special fixed references are
provided.

7
1. Description

• Highly reliable operating mechanisms • Mechanical anti-pumping device is

thanks to a low number of standard
components • Built-in closing spring charging lever
• Extremely limited and simple • Key lock with circuit-breaker open
maintenance • Protective cover over the opening
• The accessories are common to the and closing pushbuttons for operation
whole range using a special tool
• The electrical accessories can be • Padlock on the operating pushbuttons
easily and rapidly installed or replaced
thanks to the wiring already prepared
with its own plug-socket connectors

Circuit-breaker operating mechanism (pushbutton and mechanical indicators according to IEC STDs)

N
A

C H

D G

B O

A Open/closed auxiliary contacts H Service releases (shunt opening release, shunt closing release, undervoltage
B Geared motor for closing spring charging release)
C Built-in closing spring charging lever I Closing pushbutton
D Mechanical signaling device for circuit-breaker open/closed L Opening pushbutton
E Mechanical operation counter M Additional shunt opening release
F Plug-socket connectors of electrical accessories N Locking magnet on the operating mechanism
G Signaling device for closing springs charged/discharged O Contact for signaling closing spring charged/discharged

8
Technical documentation Quality Assurance System
To go into technical and application aspects of the Vmax This complies with the ISO 9001Standards, certified by an
circuit-breakers in depth, please ask for the following independent external organization.
publications:
– UniGear ZS1 type switchgear code 1VCP000138 Test laboratory
– REF542plus unit code 1VTA100001
This complies with the UNI CEI EN ISO/IEC 17025 Standards,
– PowerCube code 1VCP000091
accredited by an independent external organization.

Environmental Management System

This complies with the ISO 14001 Standards, certified by an
independent external organization.

Health and Safety Management System

This complies with the OHSAS 18001 Standards,
certified by an independent external organization.

9
2. Selection and ordering

General characteristics of fixed Circuit-breaker

circuit-breakers for: Fixed version

Fixed version for ABB UniGear 500R panel
– free-standing installation IEC 62271-100
– ABB UniGear 500R switchgear CEI EN62271-100 (file 7642)
Standards
C37.54 - C37.09 - C37.04 - C37.55
UL Recognized Component Mark
Rated voltage Ur [kV]
Rated insulation voltage Us [kV]
Withstand voltage at 50 Hz Ud (1 min) [kV]
Impulse withstand voltage Up [kV]
Rated frequency fr [Hz]
Rated normal current (40 °C) Ir [A]

Rated breaking capacity

(rated symmetrical Isc [kA]
short-circuit current)

Rated-short time
Ik [kA]
withstand current (3s)
Standard fittings for fixed circuit-breaker series ( ) 1

The basic versions of the fixed circuit-breakers are three-pole

and fitted with:
Making capacity Ip [kA]
– EL type manual operating mechanism
– mechanical signaling device for closing springs charged/
discharged [O - 0.3” - CO - 15” - CO]
Operation sequence
– mechanical signaling device for circuit-breaker open/closed [O - 0.3” - CO - 3’ - CO]
– closing pushbutton Opening time [ms]
– opening pushbutton Arc duration [ms]
– operation counter Total breaking time [ms]
– set of ten circuit-breaker open/closed auxiliary contacts (2) Closing time [ms]
– lever for manually charging the closing springs I I H [mm/in]
– auxiliary circuit support terminal board. Maximum W [mm/in]
overall H
dimensions D [mm/in]
W D Pole centre I [mm/in]
Weight [kg/lb]
Standardized table of dimensions 1VCD
Operating temperature [°C]
Tropicalization IEC: 60068-2-30, 60721-2-1
Electromagnetic compatibility IEC 62271-1
(*) this version cannot be sold loose; this version can only be supplied
together ABB UniGear 500R switchgear

(1) Refer to the UniGear 500R catalogue for the standard equipment of the
Vmax/F circuit-breaker.
(2) Application of the shunt opening release and/or the supplementary shunt
opening release foresees the use of one and/or two auxiliary make contacts
(normally open), thereby reducing the number of available auxiliary contacts.

10
 Vmax 12 Vmax 17 Vmax/F 12 (*) Vmax/F 17 (*) Vmax 15
• • - - •
- - • • -
• • • • -
• • • • -
- - - - •
- - - - •
12 17.5 12 17.5 15
12 17.5 12 17.5 15
28 38 28 38 36 (at 60 Hz)
75 95 75 95 95
50-60 50-60 50-60 50-60 60
630 1250 630 1250 630 1250 2000 630 1250 2000 1200
16 16 16 16 - - - - - - -
20 20 20 20 - - - - - - -
25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 (3 cycles)
31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 (3 cycles)
16 16 16 16 - - - - - - -
20 20 20 20 - - - - - - -
25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 (2s)
31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 (2s)
40 40 40 40 - - - - - - -
50 50 50 50 - - - - - - -
63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 65
80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 82
• • • • -
- - - - •
33.5 ... 60 33.5 ... 60 33.5 ... 60 33.5 ... 60 27 ... 32.5
10 ... 15 10 ... 15 10 ... 15 10 ... 15 10 ... 17.5
43.5 ... 75 43.5 ... 75 43.5 ... 75 43.5 ... 75 <50
45 ... 80 45 ... 80 45 ... 80 45 ... 80 45 ... 80
496 534 543 543 543 543 534/21.02
416 416 416 516 416 516 416/16.38
421 456 461 562 461 562 456/17.95
133 133 133 133 133 133 133/5.24
77 77 77 80 77 80 77/169.40
003279 003279 003516 003558 003516 003558 003279
-5 ... +40 -5 ... +40 -5 ... +40 -5 ... +40 -30 ... +40
• • • • -
• • • • -

11
2. Selection and ordering

General characteristics of withdrawable Circuit-breaker

circuit-breakers for: Use in switchgear/enclosure

IEC 62271-100
– UniGear switchgear (550 mm width) CEI EN62271-100 (file 7642)
– PowerCube PB1 modules (600 mm width) Standards
C37.54 - C37.09 - C37.04 - C37.55
UL Listed
Rated voltage Ur [kV]
Rated insulation voltage Us [kV]
Withstand voltage at 50 Hz Ud (1 min) [kV]
Impulse withstand voltage Up [kV]
Rated frequency fr [Hz]
Rated normal current (40 °C) Ir [A]

Rated breaking capacity (rated

Isc [kA]
symmetrical short-circuit current)

Rated short-time
Ik [kA]
withstand current (3s)

Standard fittings for withdrawable circuit-breaker series Making capacity Ip [kA]

The basic versions of the withdrawable circuit-breakers are
three-pole and fitted with:
[O - 0.3" - CO - 15" - CO]
– EL type manual operating mechanism Operation sequence
[O - 0.3" - CO - 3' - CO]
– mechanical signaling device for closing springs charged/
Opening time [ms]
discharged
Arc duration [ms]
– mechanical signaling device for circuit-breaker open/closed
Total breaking time [ms]
– closing pushbutton
Closing time [ms]
– opening pushbutton
I I H [mm/in]
– operation counter Maximum W [mm/in]
– set of ten circuit-breaker open/closed auxiliary contacts (1) overall H
dimensions D [mm/in]
– lever for manually charging the closing springs W D Pole centre I [mm/in]
– isolating contacts
Weight [kg/lb]
– cord with connector (plug only) for auxiliary circuits, with
Standardized table of dimensions 1VCD
striker pin which does not allow the plug to be inserted
Operating temperature [°C]
into the socket if the rated current of the circuit-breaker is
Tropicalization IEC: 60068-2-30, 60721-2-1
different from the rated current of the panel
Electromagnetic compatibility IEC 62271-1
– racking-in/out lever (the quantity must be defined according
to the number of pieces of apparatus ordered)
– locking electromagnet in the truck (-RL2). This prevents the
circuit-breaker being racked into the panel with the auxiliary
circuits disconnected (plug not inserted in the socket).

(1) Application of the shunt opening release and/or the supplementary shunt
opening release foresees the use of one and/or two auxiliary make contacts
(normally open), thereby reducing the number of available auxiliary contacts.

12
 Vmax/L 12 Vmax/L 17 Vmax/W 12 Vmax/W 17 Vmax/W 15
UniGear 550 UniGear 550 PowerCube PowerCube PowerCube
• • • • -
• • • • -
- - - - •
- - - - (on request)
12 17.5 12 17.5 15
12 17.5 12 17.5 15
28 38 28 38 36 (at 60 Hz)
75 95 75 95 95
50-60 50-60 50-60 50-60 60
630 1250 630 1250 630 1250 630 1250 1200
16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 -
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 -
25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 (3 cycles)
31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 (3 cycles)
16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 -
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 -
25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 (2s)
31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 31.5 (2s)
40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 -
50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 -
63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 65
80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 82
• • • • -
- - - - •
33.5 ... 60 33.5 ... 60 33.5 ... 60 33.5 ... 60 27 ... 32.5
10 ... 15 10 ... 15 10 ... 15 10 ... 15 10 ... 17.5
43.5 ... 75 43.5 ... 75 10 ... 17.5 43.5 ... 75 <50
45 ... 80 45 ... 80 45 ... 80 45 ... 80 45 ... 80
665 665 665 665 665 665 665 665 665/26.18
461 461 461 461 503 503 503 503 503/19.80
665 665 665 665 662 662 662 662 662/26.06
150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150/5.91
98 98 98 98 98 98 98 98 98/215.60
003334 003334 003280 003280 003280
-5 ... +40 -5 ... +40 -5 ... +40 -5 ... +40 -30 ... +40
• • • • -
• • • • -

13
2. Selection and ordering

Optional accessories
The accessories identified with the same number are alternative to each other (pictures refer to service releases of IEC version)

1 Shunt opening release (-MO1) 2 Additional shunt opening release (-MO2)

This allows remote opening control of the apparatus. Like the shunt opening release described above, this allows
The release can operate both in direct and alternating current. remote opening control of the apparatus and can be supplied
This release is suitable for both instantaneous and permanent by a circuit completely separate from the -MO1 release.
service. In the case of instantaneous service, the minimum The electrical and operating characteristics are identical to
current impulse time must be 150 ms. those of the shunt opening release -MO1 (see Table 1).

Table 1
24 - 30 - 48 - 60 - 110 - 132 - 220 - 250 V
Un
DC-AC (50-60 Hz)
MO1-MO2-MC 65 … 120% Un
Operating
MU 35 … 85% Un
limits
RL1 85 … 110% Un
MO1-MO2 (1) 33.5...60 ms
Opening MO1-MO2 ( 2) 27...32.5 ms
time MC 45...80 ms
MU 60...60 ms
Power on inrush (Ps) < 150 W
Inrush duration 150 ms
Continuous power (Pc) 3W
Insulation voltage 2000 V 50/60 Hz (for 1 min)
(1) All versions except Vmax 15 kV and Vmax/W 15 kV.
(2) Vmax 15 kV and Vmax/W 15 kV only.

14
3 Undervoltage release (-MU) Should the shunt closing (-MC) and undervoltage (-MU)
releases have the same power supply and you want automatic
self-closing of the circuit-breaker on return of the auxiliary
power supply, to prevent missed closing, it is necessary to
introduce a delay of 50 ms between the instant of consent to
the undervoltage release and energization of the shunt closing
release.
When the power supply network of the undervoltage release
can be subject to short interruptions or drops in voltage, to
avoid undesired trips it is possible to delay the undervoltage
release trip by fitting it with an electronic delay device (see the
accessory described in the next point).
Should the undervoltage release not be supplied, circuit-
breaker closing is prevented mechanically and the circuit-
breaker remains permanently in the open state. The circuit-
breaker can only be operated again if the undervoltage release
is de-activated mechanically by means of the undervoltage
The undervoltage release makes circuit-breaker open in the case override (see the accessory described further on).
of notable lowering or lack of its power supply.
It can be used for remote release (by means of a normally closed
type of pushbutton), lock on closing or to control the voltage in
the auxiliary circuits.
Circuit-breaker closing is only allowed with the release supplied
(the lock on closing is made mechanically). In particular, when
the undervoltage release is:
– de-energized (not supplied): it prevents circuit-breaker
closing (if the circuit-breaker is open) and makes the circuit-
breaker open (if the circuit-breaker is closed)
– energized (supplied): it allows circuit-breaker closing (if
the circuit-breaker is open) and does not make the circuit-
breaker open (if the circuit-breaker is closed).
The undervoltage release can be provided for power supply
with voltage derived on the supply side of the circuit-breaker
(therefore independent of the state the circuit-breaker fitted with
undervoltage release is in) or from an independent source.

15
2. Selection and ordering

Optional accessories
The accessories identified with the same number are alternative to each other (pictures refer to IEC version service releases)

4 Shunt closing release (-MC) 5 Electronic time-delay device (-KT)

This allows remote closing control of the apparatus. The electronic time delay device must be mounted externally
The release can operate both in direct and alternating current. to the circuit-breaker. It allows release trip with established
This release is suitable both for instantaneous and permanent and adjustable times.
service. In the case of instantaneous service, the minimum The use of the delayed undervoltage release is recommended
current impulse time must be 150 ms. in order to prevent trips when the power supply network of
The permanently supplied release carries out the electrical the release may be subject to cuts or voltage drops of short
anti-pumping function. duration.
The electrical and operating characteristics are identical If it is not energized, circuit-breaker closing is prevented.
to those of the shunt opening release -MO1 (for the The time-delay device must be combined with an
characteristics see table 1 - page 14). undervoltage release with the same voltage as the delay
device.

Characteristics of the time-delay device

Un 24...30 - 48 - 60 - 110...127 - 220...250 V–
Un 48 - 60 - 110...127 - 220...240 - V ~ 50/60 Hz
Adjustable opening time (release + time-delay device): 0.5-1-1.5-2-3 s

16
6 Undervoltage release mechanical override With the circuit-breaker closed, if you move the selector to
the “undervoltage activated” position, the following occurs:
– the circuit-breaker remains in the closed state if the
undervoltage release is energized (supplied)
– the circuit-breaker opens immediately if the undervoltage
release is de-energized (not supplied).
The undervoltage circuit-breaker override is particularly
required when:
– the circuit-breaker controls/protects a MV/LV transformer
and the undervoltage release receives the power supply
from the LV side and therefore only with the circuit-breaker
closed (without the undervoltage override it would never be
possible to close the circuit-breaker and therefore to supply
the undervoltage release)
– should it be desired to carry out manual opening
and closing operations of a circuit-breaker fitted with
undervoltage, in the withdrawn position and/or with auxiliary
The mechanical override of the undervoltage release is a circuits not supplied.
mechanical device allowing deactivation of the undervoltage The undervoltage mechanical override with manual resetting is
release functionality. always fitted with an auxiliary contact for electrical signaling of
Should this accessory by required, specify the request at undervoltage release deactivated (-BB6).
the time of ordering because subsequent application by
the customer is not possible. Note: the mechanical override with manual resetting cannot
Deactivation of the undervoltage release takes place by be supplied on the Italian market for the delivery point of
means of a special two-position selector located on the front power to the user connected in medium voltage. The CEI
of the circuit-breaker operating mechanism. The override 0-16 Standard does, in fact, prohibit permanent deactivation
remains in the selected position until the selector is moved of the undervoltage release when it is used by the “General
manually from “undervoltage deactivated” to “undervoltage Protection” to control opening of the “General Device”.
activated” (and vice versa). With the override set to
“undervoltage deactivated” the circuit-breaker behaves as
if it were without the undervoltage release. This means it is
possible to close the circuit-breaker even without power
supply to the release.

17
2. Selection and ordering

Optional accessories
The accessories identified with the same number are alternative to each other (pictures refer to IEC version service releases)

7 Circuit-breaker auxiliary contacts (-BB1; -BB2; -BB3)

General characteristics
Insulation voltage according 660 V AC
to VDE 0110 standard. Group C 800 V DC
Rated voltage 24 V ... 660 V
Test voltage 2.2 kV
Rated overcurrent 10 A
Number of contacts 5
Contact run 6 mm ... 7 mm
Activation force 26 N
Resistance 3 mΩ
Storage temperature –20 °C ... +120 °C
Operating temperature –20 °C ... +70 °C
Contact overtemperature 20 K
Number of cycles 30,000
It is possible to have electrical signaling of circuit-breaker Unlimited breaking capacity if used with 10 A fuse in series
open/closed with a group of 15 auxiliary contacts as an
alternative to the 10 provided as standard. Electrical characteristics
Note Un Rated current Breaking capacity
Application of the shunt opening release and/or the 220 V AC Cosϕ = 0,7 2.5 A 25 A
supplementary shunt opening release foresees the use of one 380 V AC Cosϕ = 0,7 1.5 A 15 A
and/or two auxiliary make contacts (normally open), thereby 500 V AC Cosϕ = 0,7 1.5 A 15 A
reducing the number of available auxiliary contacts. 660 V AC Cosϕ = 0,7 1.2 A 12 A
Time constant
1 ms 10 A 12 A
24 V DC 15 ms 10 A 12 A
50 ms 8A 10 A
200 ms 6A 7.7 A
1 ms 8A 10 A
60 V DC 15 ms 6A 8A
50 ms 5A 6A
200 ms 4A 5.4 A
1 ms 6A 8A
110 V DC 15 ms 4A 5A
50 ms 2A 4.6 A
200 ms 1A 2.2 A
1 ms 1.5 A 2A
220 V DC 15 ms 1A 1.4 A
50 ms 0.75 A 1.2 A
200 ms 0.5 A 1A

18
8 Transmitted contacts in the truck (-BT1; -BT2) 9 Position contact (-BT3)

Transmitted contacts of the withdrawable circuit-breaker This is used, together with the locking magnet of the
(installed in the circuit-breaker truck). operating mechanism (-RL1) to prevent remote closing during
These contacts are either in addition or as an alternative to racking into the cubicle.
the position contacts (for signaling circuit-breaker racked out) It is supplied for Vmax/W and Vmax/L withdrawable circuit-
located in the unit. They also carry out the function of the breakers.
position contact (-BT3). It is not supplied when the transmitted contacts in the truck
are required (-BT1; -BT2).

19
2. Selection and ordering

Optional accessories
The accessories identified with the same number are alternative to each other (pictures refer to IEC version service releases)

10 Motor operator (-MS) 11 Contact for signaling closing spring

charged/discharged (-BS2)

This carries out automatic charging of the circuit-breaker This consists of a microswitch which allows remote signaling
operating mechanism closing springs. After circuit-breaker of the state of the circuit-breaker operating mechanism
closing, the geared motor immediately recharges the closing closing spring.
springs. The contact is available in the following versions:
In the case of a power cut or during maintenance work, – contact open: signaling spring charged
the closing springs can be charged manually in any case – contact closed: signaling spring discharged.
(by means of the special crank handle incorporated in the
operating mechanism).

Characteristics
Un 24...30 - 48...60 - 110...130 - 220...250 V–
Un 100...130 - 220...250 V ~ 50/60 Hz
Operating limits 85 … 110 % Un
Power on inrush (Ps) DC = 600 W; AC = 600 VA
Rated power (Pn) DC = 200 W; AC = 200 VA
Inrush duration 0,2 s
Charging time 6-7 s
Insulation voltage 2000 V 50 Hz (for 1 min)

20
Protections and locks
Various mechanical and electromechanical locking and protection devices are available.

12 Opening and closing pushbutton protection 14 Key lock in open position

The protection allows the opening and closing pushbuttons to The lock is activated by a special circular lock.
be operated using a special tool only. Different keys (for a single circuit-breaker) are available, or the
same keys (for several circuit-breakers).

13 Opening and closing pushbutton padlock

The device allows the opening and closing pushbuttons to be

locked using a maximum of three padlocks (not supplied):
ø 4 mm.

21
2. Selection and ordering

Protections and locks

Various mechanical and electromechanical locking and protection devices are available.

15 Locking magnet on the truck (-RL2) 16 Locking magnet on the operating mechanism (-RL1)

Accessory for the withdrawable version to prevent circuit- This allows activation of the operating mechanism when the
breaker racking into the switchgear with the auxiliary circuit lock is energized only (for the characteristics see table 1
plug disconnected. page 14).
The plug makes the anti racking-in lock for different rated
current (by means of special pins). This accessory is
compulsory for Vmax/L in UniGear 550 switchgear and is
optional for Vmax/W in the PowerCube enclosure.

Characteristics
Un: 24 - 30 - 48 - 60 - 110 - 125 - 127 - 132 - 220 - 240 V–
Un: 24 - 30 - 48 - 60 - 110 - 125 - 127 - 220 - 230...240 V~ 50/60 Hz
Operating limits: 85 … 110% Un
Power on inrush (Ps): DC 250 W; AC = 250 VA
Continuous power (Pc): DC = 5 W; AC = 5 VA
Inrush duration: 150 ms

22
17 Opening solenoid (-MO3) 18 Mechanical racking-in/racking-out interlock

The opening solenoid (-MO3) is a special release with This device allows the racking-in and racking-out lock to be
demagnetization. made for circuit-breakers which have been converted into the
It is located in the operating mechanism (in the left side piece) withdrawable version using a fixed circuit-breaker.
and is not alternative to the additional shunt opening release The lock consists of two devices which carry out the following
(-MO2). functions respectively:
Use of this special release with overcurrent protection – lock on circuit-breaker closing during racking in and racking
devices, differing from PR521 and PR512, must first be out (installed in the front part of the circuit-breaker)
tested. – lock on racking in and racking out with the circuit-breaker
(installed in the rear part of the circuit-breaker).
Compulsory device for Vmax/W and Vmax/L circuit-breakers.

23
3. Specific product characteristics

Resistance to vibrations Altitude

The Vmax circuit-breakers are unaffected by mechanically The insulating property of air decreases as the altitude
generated vibrations. Please contact us for the versions increases, therefore this phenomenon must be taken into
approved by the shipping registers. account for external insulation of the apparatus (the internal
insulation of the interrupters does not undergo any variations
as it is guaranteed by the vacuum).
The phenomenon must always be taken into account during
Tropicalization the design stage of the insulating components of apparatus to
be installed over 1000 m / 3300 ft above sea level.
In this case an ACF (Altitude Correction Factor) must be
considered, which can be taken from the graph on the
following page, built up on the basis of the indications in the
IEC 62271-1 Standards or by Table 8 of ANSI/IEEE C37.20.2
1999. The following example is a clear interpretation of the
indications given above according iec Standards.

The Vmax circuit-breakers are manufactured in compliance

with the strictest regulations for use in hot-humid-saline
climates.
All the most important metal components are treated
against corrosive factors according to en12500 Standards
environmental class C and to ANSI/IEEE C37.20.2.
Galvanization is carried out in accordance with UNI ISO 2081
Standards, classification code Fe/Zn 12, with a thickness of
12x10-6 m, protected by a conversion layer mainly consisting
of chromates in compliance with the UNI ISO 4520 Standards.
These construction characteristics mean that all the Vmax
series of apparatus and their accessories comply to IEC/TS
62271-304 Standards environmental class 2.

24
 Graph for determining the Ka correction factor according to IEC 62271-1 standards.

Example ka
1,50

• Installation altitude: 2000 m

• Rated service voltage of 12 kV m=1

• Industrial frequency withstand voltage: 28 kV rms

1,40 Ka = e m (H – 1000)/8150
• Impulse withstand voltage: 75 kVp
• Ka factor, which can be taken from the graph = 1.13.
Considering the above parameters, the apparatus must withstand
(on test at zero altitude, i.e. at sea level): 1,30

– power frequency withstand voltage: 28 x 1.13 = 31.6 kVrms

– impulse withstand voltage: 75 x 1.13 = 84.7 kVp.
From the above, it can be deduced that for installations at an altitude 1,20
of 2000 m above sea level, with 12 kV service voltage, the apparatus
must be provided with 17.5 kV rated voltage, characterized by
insulation levels at industrial frequency of 38 kVrms with 95 kVp
1,10
impulse withstand voltage.

H = altitude in meters;
m = value referred to power frequency and to the lightning impulse withstand
and between phase voltages. 1,00
1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 H

From the above, it can be deduced that for installations at an

altitude of 2000 m above sea level, with 12 kV service voltage,
the apparatus must be provided with 17.5 kV rated voltage,
characterized by insulation levels at industrial frequency of
38 kVrms with 95 kVp impulse withstand voltage.

25
3. Specific product characteristics

Anti-pumping device Environmental protection program

The Vmax circuit-breakers are manufactured in accordance
with the ISO 14000 Standards (Guidelines for environmental
management).
The production processes are carried out in compliance
with the Standards for environmental protection in terms of
reduction in energy consumption as well as in raw materials
and production of waste materials. All this is thanks to
the medium voltage apparatus manufacturing facility
environmental management system.
Assessment of the environmental impact of the life cycle of
the product, obtained by minimizing energy consumption
and overall raw materials of the product, became a concrete
matter during the design stage by means of targeted selection
of the materials, processes and packing.
This is to allow maximum recycling at the end of the useful life
cycle of the apparatus.

The EL operating mechanism of Vmax circuit-breakers

(in all versions) is fitted with a mechanical anti-pumping
device which prevents re-closing due to either electrical or
mechanical commands.
Should both the closing command and any one of the
opening commands (local or remote) be active at the same
time, there would be a continuous succession of opening and
closing operations.
The anti-pumping device avoids this situation, ensuring that
each closing operation is only followed by a single opening
operation and that there is no closing operation after this.
To obtain a further closing operation, the closing command
must be released and then re-launched.
Furthermore, the anti-pumping device only allows circuit-
breaker closure if the following conditions are present at the
same time:
– operating mechanism springs fully charged
– opening pushbutton and/or opening release
(-MO1/-MO2) not enabled
– circuit-breaker open.

26
Spare parts (*) Ordering
– Shunt opening release For availability and to order spare parts, please contact our
– Supplementary shunt opening release Service department, specifying the circuit-breaker serial
– Undervoltage release number.
– Time delay device for undervoltage release
– Undervoltage release override
– Shunt closing release
– Spring charging geared motor with electrical signaling of
springs charged
– Contact signaling closing springs charged/discharged
– Circuit-breaker auxiliary contacts
– Locking electromagnet on the operating mechanism
– Position contact of the withdrawable truck
– Contacts signaling connected/isolated
– Key lock in open position
– Isolation interlock with the door
– Protection for opening pushbutton
– Protection for closing pushbutton
– Locking electromagnet on the withdrawable truck
– Set of six isolating contacts
(*) Replacement with spare parts as well as maintenance
operations must be carried-out by ABB personnel or
by skilled and specially trained personnel with in-depth
knowledge of the apparatus.

27
4. Overall dimensions

Vmax - Fixed circuit-breaker

IEC: 12...17.5 kV - 630...1250 A - 16...31.5 kA
ANSI: 15 kV - 1200 A - 25...31.5 kA
1VCD003279_V3198

416 16,37 421 16,57 35 1,38 133 5,24 133 5,24

32 1,26

291 11,46 364 14,33

1-8-10

40 1,56
2-10

8 0,31
240 ±1 9,45 ±0,04
30 1,16

534 21,02

496 19,53
16 0,61
10 0,39

8 0,31
221 ±1 8,7 ±0,04
57 2,22
176 6,93
104,5 4,11

29 1,12
188 7,39
49 1,93 29 1,12 336 13,23 28 1,1 11 12
75 2,95 266 10,47

22 0,87
48 1,89 320 12,6 48 1,89
11,9 0,47

10 0,39
39 1,54

4x 8,5 [0,33]
17 0,67
80 3,15

17 0,67 17 0,67

Dimensions are in “mm” and in “inches”.

28
Vmax/F - Fixed circuit-breakers for UniGear 500R
IEC: 12...17.5 kV - 630 A - 25...31.5 kA
1VCD003516_E0771

Dimensions are in “mm”.

29
4. Overall dimensions

Vmax/F - Fixed circuit-breakers for UniGear 500R

IEC: 12...17.5 kV - 2000 A - 25...31.5 kA
1VCD003558_V2315

79,5
59 61
A 150 150
51,5 133 133
108

18XM10

30
17

240 ±1
200
94
28

12
543

R47
40
29,5

80
58,5

218
173
105

155,5 20 416
336 28 66
189 49
266
48 320 SEZIONE A-A
SEC. A-A
81 A 75

16
26,5
426,5
86,5
243 17 BT
LV
47

11,5
133

240

9,5
133

218
16

135,5
112,7

562

Dimensions are in “mm”.

30
Vmax/W - Withdrawable circuit-breakers for PowerCube
IEC: 12...17.5 kV - 630...1250 A - 16...31.5 kA
ANSI: 15 kV - 1200 A - 25...31.5 kA
1VCD003280_V2856

492 19,37
234 9,19 42,5 1,67 15,5 0,61 123,5 4,86
10 0,39

1-8-10

2-10
4

79 3,11
31 1,22

35 1,38

205 8,07
39 1,53
662,2 26,07

36 1,42
16 0,61

629,5 24,78

625,5 24,63
619,5 24,39

598 23,54
52 2,05
56,5 2,22

260 10,24
228,5 9

154 6,06
28 1,09 25 0,98
19 0,75

19,5 0,77
21,5 0,85

76 2,99

28 1,09 49 1,93 320 12,6

370 14,58
28 1,09
416 16,38
= 503 19,8 =
438 17,23
531 20,91
662 26,05
150 5,91

456 17,95

501 19,72
150 5,91

68 2,68

124 4,88

Dimensions are in “mm” and in “inches”.

31
4. Overall dimensions

Vmax/L - Withdrawable circuit-breakers for UniGear 550 switchgear

IEC: 12...17.5 kV - 630...1250 A - 16...31.5 kA
1VCD003334_V2296

Dimensions are in “mm” only.

32
5. Electric circuit diagram

Circuit-diagram of Vmax circuit-breaker in withdrawable

version for PowerCube and UniGear 550, with EL operating
mechanism.
For other circuit-breakers, please consult us.

The diagram indicates the following conditions:

– circuit-breaker off and connected
– circuits de-energized
– closing springs discharged

Graphical symbols for electrical diagrams (617 IEC Standards)

Thermal effect Frame Capacitor Passing make

(general symbol) contact closing
momentarily
when its operating
device is released

Electromagnetic effect Conductors in screened Motor (general symbol) Position switch

cable (two conductors (limit switch) make
shown) contact

Delay Connection of Position switch

Rectifier in full wave
conductors (limit switch) brake
connection (bridge)
contact

Pushbutton control Terminal or clamp Make contact Circuit-breaker with

automatic release

Key control Socket and plug Break contact Operating device

(female and male) (general symbol)

Earth (general symbol) Resistor Change-over Lamp

(general symbol) break before (general symbol)
make contact

33
5. Electric circuit diagram

34
35
5. Electric circuit diagram

36
37
5. Electric circuit diagram

Caption Description of figures

= Reference number of diagram figure. Fig. 1 = Spring charging-motor circuit (see note C).

* = See note indicated by the letter. Fig. 2 = Shunt closing release (anti-pumping is achieved
mechanically).
-QB = Circuit-breaker accessories.
Fig. 3 = Locking magnet. If de-energized it prevents the
-BM = Device for the supervision of shunt opening circuit-breaker closing mechanically (this fig.
release and shunt closing release coil continuity must be given when -RL1 is requested and fig.
(see note D). 31 or 32 is selected). (It is possible to limit its
-MS = Motor for the closing springs charging (see consumption by connecting a delay pushbutton
note C). in series to enable the operation).

-BB1..2-3 = Circuit-breaker auxiliary contacts. Fig. 4 = Locking magnet. If de-energized it prevents the
circuit-breaker closing mechanically (this fig.
-BS1 = Limit switches of the spring-charging motor. must be given when -RL1 is requested and fig.
-BS2 = Limit switches signaling closing spring charged or 33 or 34 is selected). (It is possible to limit its
discharged. consumption by connecting a delay pushbutton
in series to enable the operation).
-BD = Position contact of the enclosure door.
Fig. 5 = Instantaneous undervoltage release (see note B).
-BT1 = Contacts signaling circuit-breaker in the
connected position (see note E). Fig. 7 = First shunt opening release circuit with possibility
of permanent supervision of coil continuity (see
-BT2 = Contacts signaling circuit-breaker in the removed note D).
position (see note E).
Fig. 8 = Locking magnet. If de-energized it prevents
-BT3 = Circuit-breaker position contact. It is open during the circuit-breaker racking-in and racking-
the travel of the breaker (see note H). out mechanically (it is possible to limit its
-SC = Pushbutton or contact for the circuit-breaker consumption by connecting a delay pushbutton
closing. in series to enable the operation).

-SO = Pushbutton or contact for the circuit-breaker Fig. 9 = Second shunt opening release circuit with
opening. possibility of permanent supervision of coil
continuity (see note D).
-XB = Connector for the circuit-breaker circuits.
Fig. 10 = Opening solenoid for release outside the circuit-
-XB2..9 = Connectors of accessories. breaker.
-XB1 = Switchboard terminal board (mounted outside the Fig. 26 = Contact signaling closing spring charged and
circuit-breaker). discharged (see note H).
-RL1 = Locking magnet. If de-energized it prevents Fig. 31-32-33-34 =Circuit-breaker available auxiliary contacts.
circuit-breaker closing mechanically (it is possible
to limit its consumption by connecting a delay Fig. 51 = Contacts signaling circuit-breaker in the
pushbutton in series to enable the operation). connected and isolated positions located on the
circuit-breaker (obligatory when fig. 31 or 32 is
-RL2 = Locking magnet. If de-energized it prevents requested).
the circuit-breaker racking-in and racking-
out mechanically (it is possible to limit its Fig. 52 = Contacts signaling circuit-breaker in the
consumption by connecting a delay pushbutton connected and isolated positions located on the
in series to enable the operation). circuit-breaker (optional when fig. 33 or 34 is
requested).
-MC = Shunt closing release (see note D).
Fig. 60 = Contact signaling undervoltage release
-MO1 = First shunt opening release (see note D). deactivated.
-MO2 = Second shunt opening release (see note D)
-MO3 = Opening solenoid for release outside the circuit-
breaker.
-MU = Undervoltage release (see note B).

38
Incompatibility Notes
The combinations of circuits given in the figures below are not A) The circuit-breaker is delivered complete with the
possible on the same circuit-breaker: accessories listed in the ABB order acknowledgement only.
3-4 31-31-33-34 4-31-32 To draw up the order, consult this catalogue.

3-33-34 – 31-32-52 B) The undervoltage release is available in the version suitable

33-34-51 51-52 for circuit-breaker supply side feeding or for feeding from
an independent source. The circuit-breaker can only be
closed if the undervoltage release is energized (lock on
closing is achieved mechanically). When there is the same
voltage supply for the closing and undervoltage releases
and automatic closing of the circuit-breaker is required
when the auxiliary voltage supply returns, a delay of 50
ms must be provided between energization of the closing
release and the instant of consent to the undervoltage
release.

C) The circuit for supervision of the shunt opening release coil

continuity must only be used for this function.

D) The circuit for supervision of the shunt opening release coil

continuity must only be used for this function.

E) Contacts signaling circuit-breaker in the connected and

isolated positions (-BT1 and -BT2) given in fig. 51 or 52
are located on the circuit-breaker (moving part) and are
available on request.

F) Fig. 3 is given when fig. 31 or 32 is required, fig. 4 when

fig. 33 or 34 is required (in this case -BT3 is obligatory).

G) When fig. 10 is required, contact -BB3 31-32 given in fig.

32-34 is not available. When fig. 30 is requested contact
-BB3 53-54 given in fig. 32-34 is not available. When fig. 9
is required, contact -BB1 43-44 given in fig. 31-32-34-34
is not available.

H) Both limit switch contacts must be operating at the same

supply voltage

39
Notes

40
41
Contact us

1VCP000408 - Rev. -, en - Technical catalogue - 2011.02 (Vmax) (gs)

Your sales contact: www.abb.com/contacts
More product information: www.abb.com/productguide

The data and illustrations are not binding. We reserve the right to make changes
without notice in the course of technical development of the product.
© Copyright 2011 ABB.
All rights reserved.