Which of the following speeds are important in the operation of circuit breakers?

In the operation of circuit breakers, all mentioned speeds—speed of make, speed of break, and arcing speed—are crucial for ensuring safety and reliability in electrical systems.

The speed of make refers to how quickly the circuit breaker can close its contacts when electrical current needs to be restored, allowing for minimal disruption in service and reducing the risk of damage during a fault condition. A fast make speed contributes to the effective protection of electrical equipment.

The speed of break is equally important, as it indicates how quickly the circuit breaker can interrupt the current flow during a fault. A rapid break helps to isolate the fault, preventing electrical fires, equipment damage, or further hazards to safety.

Arcing speed is also significant because it affects how quickly the circuit breaker can extinguish the arc that forms when contacts open. Efficient arc extinction ensures that the circuit breaker can successfully interrupt high currents without allowing the arc to persist, which could otherwise lead to overheating and potential failure.

Together, these speeds play a vital role in the effective functionality of circuit breakers, making it essential to consider all of them for optimal performance in electrical protection systems.