Patent ID: 7772515
Filing Date: 2010-08-10
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A switchgear element assembly, comprising: a ceramic insulator defining a bore and having a fixed contact therein; a movable contact mounted to the ceramic insulator and selectively positionable relative to the fixed contact; an overwrap layer of composite material substantially surrounding and directly contacting at least a portion of an outer surface of the ceramic insulator; an elastomeric insulating housing enclosing the ceramic insulator; and a compliant dielectric layer directly contacting and surrounding at least a portion of the overwrap layer, the compliant dielectric layer being disposed between the overwrap layer and the elastomeric insulating housing and buffering the overwrap layer from the elastomeric insulating housing; wherein the ceramic insulator is supported by the overwrap layer, and wherein the overwrap layer of composite material comprises one of a matting of insulating material and a plurality of continuous strands of insulating material, the one of the matting of insulating material and the plurality of continuous strands of insulating material being embedded in a polymeric compound that becomes rigid when the composite material is cured.