What is the role of circuit breakers in a substation?

The primary function of circuit breakers in a substation is to provide protection against overloads and short circuits within the electrical system. They are designed to detect abnormal electrical conditions, such as excessive current flow, which could potentially damage electrical equipment or pose safety risks. When such conditions are detected, the circuit breaker automatically interrupts the circuit, isolating the affected portion of the system to prevent further damage and maintain overall system integrity.

The importance of this role cannot be overstated, as circuit breakers also help maintain reliable operation of the power system. By quickly responding to faults, they allow for safe maintenance and service continuity for other portions of the system. This ensures that power can still be supplied to consumers without risk of widespread outages.

While circuit breakers may have some capabilities related to switching power sources or achieving specific operational goals, these functions are secondary to their main role of protecting the equipment and the system from dangerously high currents. Similarly, they do not serve to enhance voltage levels or directly measure power flow, which are tasks typically managed by other devices in the electrical infrastructure.