Parameter Category Specification
General
• Type Indoor, Vacuum, Fixed or Draw-out (depends on panel design)
• Standard IEC 62271-100, ANSI C37.06
• Rated Voltage (Ur) 12 kV
• Rated Frequency 50 / 60 Hz
Insulation Level
• Power-Frequency Withstand (Ud) 12 kV (1 min)
• Lightning Impulse Withstand (Up) Typically 42 kV or 75 kV (Standard impulse withstand for 12kV class is 75 kV, but 1212 suggests a lower insulation level; this must be verified. It often corresponds to a 28 kV or 42 kV Up). Critical to confirm with actual datasheet.
Current Ratings
• Rated Normal Current (Ir) Common frame sizes: 630A, 1250A, 1600A, 2000A, 2500A, 3150A. The specific value is not defined in 1212-31 and must be specified separately (e.g., VD4M 1212-31 1250A).
• Rated Short-Circuit Breaking Current (Isc) 31.5 kA (RMS, symmetrical)
• Rated Short-Time Withstand Current (Ik) 31.5 kA for 3 seconds (typically)
• Rated Peak Withstand Current (Ip) 80 kA (2.55 x Isc)
Switching Performance
• Rated Breaking Capacity Full Isc at Ur. Suitable for transformer, cable, and motor switching.
• Mechanical Endurance ≥ 20,000 operations (M2 class)
• Electrical Endurance ≥ 10,000 operations at full Ir (E2 class)
Operating Mechanism (M)
• Type Spring-operated, stored energy.
• Charging Electric Motor for automatic spring recharging after each operation.
• Closing Time ~60 – 80 ms
• Opening Time ~40 – 60 ms
Control & Auxiliaries
• Standard Releases Interfaces with external protection relay. Equipped with Shunt Trip (MX) and Undervoltage Release (MN) as common options.
• Auxiliary Contacts Multiple changeover contacts for signaling breaker status.
• Control Voltage Common DC voltages: 48V, 110V, 220V DC. Must be specified.
Vacuum Interrupter Axial or radial magnetic field design for long contact life and low chopping current.
Dimensions & Weight Varies significantly with current rating. A 1250A fixed version approx.:
• Width: ~ 400-500 mm
• Height: ~ 600-700 mm
• Depth: ~ 700-800 mm
• Weight: ~ 150 – 250 kg
The ABB VD4M 1212-31 is a medium-voltage, indoor, vacuum circuit breaker belonging to the renowned ABB VD4 family. The "M" suffix typically indicates a motor-driven, spring-operated stored energy mechanism, designed for frequent operations and remote control.