500-kV Switch Design and Tests

A discussion of the development and test of 500-kV air break switches is presented. An explanation of the performance requirements of extra-high-voltage switches and the reasons they differ from lower voltage switches is included. Preliminary research tests and switch configurations are described, presenting the problems of design and explaining solutions. Tests of the switch installed on cap and pin and post insulators are included for 60-cycle, impulse, and switching surge. The gap tests described allow switch gap-insulator comparisons. Switching surge phase-to-phase test results are included, in addition to the results of switching surge tests made of the switch when used to connnect two utility systems together.