Contact Arm Pair for MV Switchgear

A matched contact arm pair consists of two arms produced as a coordinated unit, same lot, same dimensions, geometrically aligned for the breaker mechanism that uses two arms working together. For MV breakers with dual-path operating mechanisms (one current path on each side), the pair is the natural ordering unit: matched dimensions ensure even current distribution and mechanical balance during opening.

For single-arm orders or applications using one arm per mechanism, see Contact Arm Single. For the category overview, see Contact Arms.

Specifications

Property	Value
Configuration	Matched pair (2 arms, same lot, coordinated geometry)
Material	ETP copper C11000 (default); aluminum or bimetal on request
Form	Machined contact arms (length, cross-section, bends per drawing)
Pair Consistency	Same material lot, matched dimensions per drawing
Surface Treatment	Silver-plated contact zones; bright-machined elsewhere
Contact Face	Bare, silver-plated, or pre-brazed CuW tip
Conductivity	100% IACS (C11000); 40–43% IACS (aluminum)
Working Voltage	Common MV ratings: 12 / 24 / 40.5 kV
Working Current	Sized per breaker design rated current

Exact certified properties for your lot are available with material documentation on request.

Applications

• Dual-arm VCB mechanisms at 12 / 24 / 40.5 kV
• MV breaker designs with coordinated two-path current systems
• Refurbishment programs requiring matched-pair replacements for installed dual-arm breakers
• Sub-supply to VCB OEMs assembling complete dual-arm contact systems

Technical Notes

The "matched" in matched pair means three things: same material lot (so both arms have identical electrical and mechanical properties), same machining batch (so dimensional variation is minimized), and coordinated geometry (left/right or upper/lower as the design requires). For VCB OEMs with QC traceability requirements, one material certification covers both arms in the pair.

Mechanical timing matters for paired arms. If the two arms reach the contact face at different points during the breaker's opening or closing motion, current distribution becomes uneven and arc erosion concentrates on one side. The pair's coordinated geometry, matched bend angles, matched contact face heights, keeps timing consistent.

For pre-brazed CuW-tipped pairs, both arms get the same CuW grade and tip dimensions from the same brazing run. This is the cleanest path for VCB OEMs sourcing complete contact systems.

Sourcing & OEM

Custom contact arm pairs to your drawing are routine. Specify material, geometry, plating zones, and any pre-brazed CuW tips; contact us with the pair drawing for a project-specific quote.