Generator circuit breaker experience more demanding and severe conditions as compared to general distribution and transmission circuit breakers. These unique and demanding characteristics were first addressed by International standard IEEE C37.013 and later followed & superseded by a dual logo standard IEC/IEEE 62271-37-013 which are used worldwide for generator circuit breaker applications. The purpose of this paper is to summarise the demanding and special technical requirements of generator circuit breakers. The superior performance capabilities of generator circuit breakers that are different from general purpose circuit breaker are highlighted and unique requirements of transient recovery voltage (TRV) and phenomenon like Delayed Current Zeroes are discussed along with need for synthetic type testing method. A comparison summary of Old IEEE C37.013 & new IEC/IEEE 62271-37-013 is presented. Difference between normal Distribution Circuit Breaker standard IEC 62271-100 & Generator circuit breaker standard IEC/IEEE 62271-37-013 is also summarised.
