How does vaporized oil contribute to the operation of an oil switch?

Vaporized oil plays a crucial role in the operation of an oil switch by creating pressure. When the current flows through the switch and an arc is generated due to the interruption of the circuit, the oil inside the switch heats up and vaporizes. This vaporized oil expands, increasing pressure within the switch. The elevated pressure created by the vapor helps to extinguish the arc by forcing the ionized gas away from the contacts, thus allowing safe operation and preventing damage to the switch components.

The expansion of the vaporized oil is essential for rapid arc extinction, which is a key function of oil switches. Unlike cooling or lubrication, which do not directly influence the fundamental mechanism of arc interruption, the creation of pressure ensures that the system remains functional and safe in high-power electrical applications.