Circuit breakers Vs Switch Fuse for Power Factor Correction.

Can any one tell me the advantages and disadvantages of using circuit breakers or switch fuses for power factor correction protection? With regards protection of the capacitors and lifetime of the protection device and how the switching in and out of the capacitors will effect the protective devices.
Thanks.

 

[sunilji]

In case you are referring to LT or LV ( LOW TENSION or LOW VOLTAGE upto 440V ) capacitors, a switch fuse or a circuit breaker are equally effective for isolation or protection. Cost is usually the consideration.
Personally I would prefer switch fuse because if one fuse blows, the remaining 2 healthy fuses will keep the capacitor partly effective in improving the power factor.
A circuit breaker or switch fuse cannot really protect the capacitor against age related damage or deterioration. Only if you use voltage sensing relays, you can put a circuit breaker to good use in protecting the capacitor ( but you will face drop out of capacitors at awkward times thus lowering PF and raising Maximum Demand )

Finally, if you are referring to high voltage capacitors ( 11 / 22 / 33 kV ), circuit breakers are the only option as the arc during closing and opening is very severe.

 

[infomaniac]

I agree with the previous post