What are hook-stick operated and gang-operated devices used in substations?

Hook-stick operated and gang-operated devices are primarily used for isolating circuits and ensuring safety during maintenance work in substations. These devices allow operators to effectively open or close a circuit from a safe distance, reducing the risk of electrical hazards.

Disconnect switches, specifically, are designed to isolate sections of the electrical system for maintenance or to ensure safety during fault conditions. They typically have an open and close position that can be easily manipulated from a distance with a hook-stick, making it straightforward for operators to ensure that circuits are de-energized before performing any work. This attribute is critical in maintaining safety protocols within electrical systems, as it minimizes direct contact with live components.

In contrast, switches, transformers, and breakers serve different purposes within the electric grid. Switches are often more versatile but may not be specifically designed for safety isolation at a distance, transformers handle the voltage changes rather than serving as an isolation method, and breakers are designed to interrupt current flow under fault conditions, rather than isolating circuits for maintenance.