Pole Mounted Recloser

A pole mounted recloser is an automatic high-voltage switching device installed on overhead distribution lines. It is designed to detect faults, interrupt fault current, and automatically restore power if the fault is temporary.

What It Does

On overhead power networks, many faults are temporary-such as lightning strikes, tree branches, birds, or wind-blown debris. A pole mounted recloser opens the circuit when it detects a fault, waits for a preset time, and then closes again to test whether the fault has cleared.

If the fault is temporary, supply is restored automatically. If the fault remains, the recloser trips again and may lock out after several attempts.

Main Components

- Vacuum or SF₆ interrupter – interrupts the fault current.

- Current and voltage sensors – measure line conditions.

- Electronic controller – detects faults and controls reclosing sequences.

- Operating mechanism – opens and closes the contacts.

- Surge arresters – protect against lightning and switching surges.

- Mounting frame or bracket – secures the unit to a utility pole.

- Communication module – optional, used for SCADA or remote control.

Common Applications

Pole mounted reclosers are commonly used on:

- Medium-voltage overhead distribution feeders

- Rural and suburban power networks

- Feeder sectionalizing points

- Renewable energy interconnection lines

- Industrial or mining distribution systems

Advantages

- Improves reliability of electricity supply

- Reduces outage duration

- Automatically clears temporary faults

- Limits the number of customers affected by a fault

- Can be remotely monitored and controlled

- Supports smart grid automation

Typical Voltage Ratings

Pole mounted reclosers are usually applied on medium-voltage systems such as:

- 11 kV

- 15 kV

- 22 kV

- 24 kV

- 27 kV

- 33 kV

- 38 kV

Exact ratings depend on the utility network and equipment specification.

Reclosing Sequence Example

A typical sequence may be:

1. Fault detected

2. Recloser opens

3. Short delay

4. Recloser closes

5. If fault is cleared, supply remains on

6. If fault persists, the recloser trips again

7. After several attempts, it locks out

Difference Between a Recloser and a Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker interrupts fault current but usually requires manual or remote reclosing. A recloser is specifically designed to automatically reclose after tripping, making it especially useful on overhead distribution lines where temporary faults are common.

Summary

A pole mounted recloser is a key protection and automation device for overhead distribution networks. It helps isolate faults, restore power automatically after temporary disturbances, and improve overall system reliability.