Talk:Knife switch

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[edit] Created page

I just created the page for Knife switch, it should either be expanded, or merged into this one (probably merged), but I don't have the knowledge to do so. If anyone wants to merge and delete the KS page, feel free but be sure to correct the wikilinks (that's wat made me create the page in the first place). WLU 15:02, 1 June 2007 (UTC)

I was intrigued in the GE booklet I have by the mention that in the old days (pre-1920), before the invention of even the most primitive circuit breaker, the operator of a switchboard was known for wearing a bowler hat because he would place his hat over the switch while operating it to keep from being hit by the arcing and sparks. I wouldn't mind putting that in to this article but it's so fantastic it seems apocryphal. If anyone should confirm this story it would make a wonderful addition. EasilyAmused 19:05, 5 July 2007 (UTC)

That would be cool, but when I did the original search for references, there wasn't much. If you've got a reference, even a non-electronic version, you are justified in putting it in, though you may want to word it so the 'apocryphality' is apparent. WLU 19:11, 5 July 2007 (UTC)

I agree that the quench article was not the best fit to link to, but "quench" is the right term for breaking the arc. If you "ground" the arc you're just creating a short circuit to ground. EasilyAmused 07:41, 8 July 2007 (UTC)

I don't know the difference, but my main objection was the inappropriate wikilink. The only suggestion I have is to put in a short definition of quench. It's redundant if you have a wikilink, but if you don't, a definition would be useful. Also, you might want to put a definition in on one of the other electricity pages. WLU 12:48, 8 July 2007 (UTC)