What is the primary purpose of air blast in air blast breakers?

The primary purpose of air blast in air blast breakers is to reduce arc duration. When an electrical fault occurs, the current flowing through the circuit can create an arc between the contacts of the breaker. Air blast breakers use a blast of compressed air to extinguish this arc quickly and efficiently. The high velocity of the air helps to cool the arc and disperse the ionized gases that are generated, which enables the contacts to separate without sustaining damage and helps to restore normal operation in a shorter time frame.

By swiftly and effectively extinguishing the arc, air blast breakers enhance system reliability and mitigate the risk of extended interruptions or equipment damage due to prolonged arcing. This capability is critical in power systems where maintaining the integrity and safety of the electrical supply is essential. The other options do not align with the fundamental operational goal of air blast breakers in terms of arc management.