Guide to Transformer Load Break Switches

Today, I’ll give you a quick rundown on a Load Break Switch for a Transformer.  (sometimes called an LBOR switch)

A load break switch is a simple device to understand if one thinks of it as an “on / off” switch, similar to an “on / off” light switch in your house. A load break switch is designed to switch the power “on or off” or change the position when the transformer is energized (meaning it has a load on it) and the switch will break it. A more formal definition of what Load Break Switch is “a disconnect switch that has been designed to provide making or breaking of specified currents.”

4 Position Load Break Switch

Note, that this “making or breaking” of the electrical current is typically accomplished by someone with a “hot stick” from the local utility or a trained electrician.

The two most common types of load break switches are the 2 position switch and the 4 position switch.

The 2 Position Switch is exactly what it sounds like: on or off. That’s it! The 4 Position Switch, however, allows for a little more functionality. It’s used for a loop feed transformer.

The four positions are as follows:

Position 1 - A-side on and the transformer on (energized)
Position 2 - B-side on and the transformer on
Position 3 - A & B-side on and the transformer on
Position 4 - A & B-side on with the transformer off (not energized)

When the transformer is in Position 4 then it is just feeding through. The bushings are energized but the transformer itself is not.

Hope you found this information helpful and if you get a chance check out our short 1 min video that explains all this too.