Which device is designed to automatically interrupt a circuit and then reclose it after a fault on a distribution feeder?

Which device is designed to automatically interrupt a circuit and then reclose it after a fault on a distribution feeder?

• A. Transformer
• B. Recloser
• C. Breaker
• D. Capacitor

Answer: (B)

A recloser is designed to automatically interrupt a fault current and then reclose the circuit after a short delay. On a distribution feeder, this lets the system clear temporary faults quickly and restore service without a technician. If the fault is temporary, the recloser closes again and power is restored; if the fault persists, it may trip and stay open, triggering further protection downstream. This behavior distinguishes a recloser from a transformer (which changes voltage, not protection) and from a capacitor (which provides reactive power support). A standard breaker also interrupts faults but isn’t defined by automatic reclosing on feeders in the same way, making the recloser the best fit for this function.

A recloser is designed to automatically interrupt a fault current and then reclose the circuit after a short delay. On a distribution feeder, this lets the system clear temporary faults quickly and restore service without a technician. If the fault is temporary, the recloser closes again and power is restored; if the fault persists, it may trip and stay open, triggering further protection downstream. This behavior distinguishes a recloser from a transformer (which changes voltage, not protection) and from a capacitor (which provides reactive power support). A standard breaker also interrupts faults but isn’t defined by automatic reclosing on feeders in the same way, making the recloser the best fit for this function.