What mechanism do some high voltage circuit breakers use to operate?

High voltage circuit breakers often utilize compressed air as a mechanism to operate due to the reliability and speed that this method provides. Compressed air can be used to actuate the opening and closing processes of the breaker, allowing it to interrupt electrical flow quickly during fault conditions. This method is advantageous because it allows for rapid operation and can be reliably controlled even in various environmental conditions.

In systems where quick disconnection from a power source is critical, such as in high voltage applications, the use of compressed air offers both safety and effectiveness. The air pressure can be precisely regulated, ensuring consistent performance of the circuit breaker.

While other methods like hydraulic pressure and magnetic fields do exist in different contexts of circuit operations, they may not provide the same speed and efficiency necessary for high voltage applications.