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Automatic Source Transfer and Fault Protection
VFI Vacuum Fault Interrupters

VFI pad-mounted switchgear provides a simple, economical approach to switching and protection requirements for 5, 15, 25 and 35 kV underground systems.

Kyle® Type VFI Vacuum Fault Interrupter pad-mounted switchgear provides superior overcurrent protection through the use of proven, reliable Kyle vacuum interrupters. The resettable breaker mechanism allows immediate service restoration, eliminating the added downtime and expense associated with replacing conventional fuses.

VFI switchgear can be used for both utility and commercial/industrial applications, and is easily coordinated using field-selectable settings to meet distribution system requirements. The modular design allows the switching system to be tailored to specific requirements without the high cost of custom construction.

The VFI is versatile in application. A wide selection of TCCs and minimum trip settings make it easily adaptable to distribution systems. It fits the majority of standard pads, and is compatible with commonly used tools and techniques.

Ratings for VFI Vacuum Fault Interrupter Pad-mounted Switchgear
Nominal Voltage 5 and 15kV 25kV 35kV
Maximum Design Voltage 15.5 27 38
BIL (kV) 95 125 150
1-Minute Withstand, Switch and Terminators (kV) 34 40 50
Continuous Current (Amps) (max.) 600 600 600
Load Switching (Amps) 600 600 600
Momentary Current 10 Cycles (asym.) (Amps) 20,000 20,000 20,000
Short Time Rating - 3 Sec. (sym.) (Amps) 12,000 12,000 12,000
Close and Latch (asym.) - 3 operations (Amps) 20,000 20,000 20,000

The deadfront construction offers a high safety factor for utility personnel and the general public. Inside, all terminators are covered with insulating rubber. All internal parts are completely sealed in insulating oil to reduce maintenance and eliminate the problems of moisture, dirt and wildlife commonly associated with air-insulated switchgear.

The mechanism can be quickly and easily reset. However, if a fault is present when the mechanism is closed, the trip-free feature will prevent the mechanism from being held in the closed position.

The VFI provides three-phase ganged tripping. An overcurrent on any phase automatically opens all three phases simultaneously preventing single-phasing of three-phase loads. It can be specified with single-phase trip, to provide individual phase protection for single-phase transformer loop applications.

The VFI breaker also serves as a vacuum load-break switch. The tap can be switched with a simple push-pull of the operation handle.

Source switching is accomplished by three-phase, 600A rated vacuum load-break switches. These industry proven switches provide a superior duty cycle, as compared to either oil- or air-break switches, especially in higher voltage applications.

Visible Break is available as an accessory for VFI vacuum switchgear. The innovative Visible Break switch provides positive visual verification of pad-mounted switchgear contact position. Visible Break is currently available in two-position (OPEN-CLOSED) or three-position (OPEN-CLOSED-GROUND). The Visible-Break feature enables an operator to peer through a sealed viewing window to verify contact position. Large, easily viewed contacts show the open/close/ground position of the Visible-Break switch.

The VFI is controlled by the Kyle Tri-Phase control or TPG control, which is powered by system current via the current transformer circuits. The control requires no external voltage supply or battery backup. Since the control is powered by the sensing CT circuits, it is not affected by system voltage conditions, such as overvoltage transients. The minimum-trip setting for each phase is DIP switch selectable, permitting convenient field configuration, to meet specific application requirements. The control features an assortment of field replaceable TCC modules, providing exceptional coordination flexibility between the control and other protective equipment. Coordination and application of the Tri-Phase or TPG control is identical to fuse application, but with the benefit of greatly expanded trip ratings and timing curves.

The TPG control provides ground trip and minimum response TCCs. It can also be supplied with an optional SCADA accessory, which provides the user with remote trip, along with Status and Fault indicators, for each TPG-controlled VFI mechanism. In addition, Inrush Restraint and Minimum Trip Multiplier accessories are provided.

VFI is available in 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6-way standard configurations at 15, 25, and 35 kV. For availability of other configurations, contact your Cooper Power Systems representative.