Mechanical spark containment for disconnector

A disconnector assembly comprising:

• an isolator configured to perform an operating function in response to a fault current, the operating function disconnects a protective device from a ground, the isolator including:
• a first terminal electrically connected to the protective device, and
• a second terminal electrically connected to the ground;
• and
• a housing configured to surround the isolator, the housing including:
• a first opening through which the first terminal extends,
• a second opening through which the second terminal extends, and
• a gripping mechanism configured to retain the first opening in an open position until the operating function occurs;
• and
• wherein the gripping mechanism is configured to cover the first opening after the operating function occurs to prevent egress from the housing through the first opening.

An electrical system comprising:

• a conductor;
• a ground;
• an arrester electrically connected to the conductor;
• and
• a disconnector assembly electrically connected between the arrester and the ground;
• the disconnector assembly including:
• an isolator including:
• a first terminal electrically connected to the arrester, and
• a second terminal electrically connected to the ground, the isolator configured to an operating function when an electrical parameter of the isolator exceeds a threshold associated with an electrical failure of the arrester;
• and
• a housing configured to surround the isolator, the housing including:
• a first opening through which the first terminal extends,
• a second opening through which the second terminal extends, and
• a mechanism configured to close the first opening when the operating function occurs to prevent egress from the housing through the first opening.