An auto recloser is a type of
circuit breaker equipped with a mechanism that automatically closes the breaker after it has been opened due to a fault. Reclosers are used to detect overcurrent and interrupt momentary faults in electrical distribution networks.
To prevent damage, each station along a network is protected with circuit breakers which turn the power off if there is a short circuit.
Reclosers are programmed to automate the reset process and start the restoration service.
Why Have an Auto Recloser?
- Firstly, reclosers prevent transient short circuits from triggering prolonged power outages. This could be a broken tree branch momentarily hitting an overhead cable before it hits the ground. Having a recloser results in a better service to the customer as the power is restored within a few seconds.
- Secondly, the recloser is able to restore power automatically without the requirement of an engineer unless the fault is more serious.