Informational Brochure

Reverse Loop Contacts Reverse loop contacts are a standard design feature on all Pascor Atlantic disconnects switches. The Reverse Loop concept increases contact pressure by use of the current that flows through them. Physics tells us that if two parallel bus bars are carrying current in the same direction the two bus bars will be drawn together due to the forces from the current. Also if these same two bus bars have current traveling in opposite directions the bus bars will be forced apart. As the current increases (such as fault current) these forces will increase. Current flows from the blade end contact to the reverse loop contacts in the same direction which increases the contact pressure on the blade contact. The current flow on each reverse loop contact is in opposite directions which again increase the contact pressure on the blade contact. Fault currents will significantly increase contact pressure in a reverse loop contact design and ensure that the contacts maintain proper engagement. Insulating washers are also used between the spring and reverse loop contact to isolate the spring from the current path to prevent annealing of the spring resulting in a loss of contact pressure. This insures proper contact pressure and current flow through the reverse loop. Reverse Loop Contacts

Blade End Contact

Insulating Washer

Current Flow Repelling Forces Attracting Forces

Typical end view of vertical break The reverse loop contact design was introduced to the industry by Pascor Atlantic’s predecessor company ITE. This design philosophy remains a standard for all disconnect switches manufactured by Pascor Atlantic today.

Pascor Atlantic Corporation State route 42 • 254 Industry Drive • Bland, VA 24315 Tel: 276-688-3328 • Fax: 276-688-2228 www.pascoratlantic.com