Title: Protective system for electrical apparatus

Abstract: A protective system for electrical apparatus mounted in a vault which has an opening to the atmosphere. Overheating of the electrical apparatus is distinguished from tobacco smoke, engine exhaust fumes, and other air borne particulates, by an ion chamber monitor and a thermally activated material in the vault which decomposes at a predetermined elevated temperature indicative of overheating. The material is selected to decompose above 300.degree. C. and produce a gas which decreases the self-recombination rate of the ion in the ion detector monitor to increase the ion current. An alarm is generated on a predetermined increase in ion current, instead of upon a decrease, such as caused by particulates.

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Inventors: Phillips, D. Colin (Monroeville, PA, US)

Application Number: 879183
Filing Date: 1978-02-21
Publication_date: 1980-06-17
Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp. (Pittsburgh, PA)
Primary Class(es): 340/627 250/303, 374/159
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

2408051	Sep, 1946	Donelian	340/629.
3774044	Nov, 1973	Langeron	340/627.
3795904	Mar, 1974	Byersdorf et al.	340/629.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Caldwell, Sr., John W.
Assistant Examiner: Myer, Daniel
Attorney: Lackey; D. R.