New Approach to Molded Case Circuit Breakers Maintenance System Using Nanoparticles

Abstract

Molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) is used to operate and protect electric devices and therefore, the maintenance process is very important and should be made regularly. Maintenance is made via removing the dust by an air blower. This process cleans the MCCB from the outer body only so, the contact points were located at the inner part is dusty. In thus, during the operation, the carbon is formulated on the contact points. Due to the repeat of operations, the contact points become invalid and should to replace by another new one. Maintenance of the (MCCB) was made by a newly proposed maintenance technique. In the proposed maintenance technique, the nanoparticles (NPs) are used and dissolved in the transformer oil. Then the nano oil is prepared. The nano oil leaks into the internal contact points of MCCB and absorbs carbonate. In addition, the nano oil is used to lubricate the internal mechanical parts of MCCB. An electrical test of the MCCB is performed after treatment to ensure the benefits of the new proposed method. The test results of proposed maintenance processes are compared with the traditional method according to the IEC Standards 60947. The results are studied using statistical analysis and explained substantial differences when using nanoparticles. MCCB has raised the efficiency and prolonged life span.