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DTI proposes a high speed circuit breaker using liquid nitrogen as a dielectric / coolant. The small volume of liquid nitrogen contained in this unit (approximately 8 liters) minimizes the asphyxiation hazard associated with a liquid nitrogen release. Liquid nitrogen allows for a high speed breaker due to its superior dielectric properties compared to conventional dielectrics; as well as reduction or even elimination of resistive losses in the breaker due to operating at cryogenic temperatures. This reduces the size and mass of the moving contacts thus allowing for faster operating speed with a given actuation force.