The vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) market has grown steadily in recent years, driven by global efforts to modernize power distribution infrastructure and support the clean energy transition.
In 2023, the global VCB market was valued at approximately USD 5.1 billion. By the end of 2024, this figure grew to USD 5.41 billion, reflecting the market’s resilience and growing demand across industrial, commercial, and utility sectors.
Deployment of smart grid infrastructure and intelligent monitoring systems
Accelerated integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind
Replacement of aging switchgear in legacy power systems
Urbanization and industrialization, particularly in emerging economies across Asia-Pacific
Based on industry insights and projections reviewed from peer sources, the global vacuum circuit breaker market is expected to continue its upward trend. The market is forecast to reach approximately USD 8.1 billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.18% from 2025 to 2032.
A vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) is a crucial type of switchgear designed to protect electrical systems from overloads, short circuits, and other fault conditions. It works by interrupting the flow of current and extinguishing the resulting arc within a sealed vacuum interrupter. This arc-quenching process ensures minimal contact erosion and superior insulation recovery.
For a more in-depth look at how vacuum circuit breakers function, including real-world applications, tests of the Vacuum Circuit Breaker, and benefits, feel free to check out our comprehensive overview here.
When the contacts inside the breaker open, an electrical arc forms. However, in a VCB, this arc is rapidly extinguished due to the vacuum environment, which contains no ionizable gases. This ensures fast arc suppression and minimal contact wear, making VCBs highly reliable for medium-voltage systems.
Vacuum Interrupter: The heart of the breaker, where arc extinction occurs.
Operating Mechanism: Mechanically opens and closes the contacts.
Contact Materials: Typically made of copper-chromium for durability and low arc erosion.
Interrupter Chamber: A sealed enclosure maintaining high vacuum levels for optimal arc suppression.
| Company Name | Company Size | Founded | Main Products |
| GOTO Electric | 150+ | 2000s | Custom-engineered VCBs, vacuum interrupters, and MV switchgear |
| Siemens | ~300,000 | 1847 | Smart grid VCBs, industrial automation, and high-voltage switchgear |
| ABB | ~105,000 | 1988 | Medium-voltage VCBs, smart grid, renewable energy solutions |
| Schneider Electric | ~160,000 | 1836 | IoT-enabled VCBs, commercial & utility switchgear |
| Eaton | ~85,000 | 1911 | Compact VCBs, commercial & utility-grade switchgear |
| Circuit Breaker Wholesale | N/A | 2006 | Reconditioned/surplus OEM VCBs, U.S. distribution |
| General Electric (GE) | ~130,000 | 1892 | Modular VCBs, Grid Solutions division products |
| Mitsubishi Electric | ~150,000 | 1921 | Compact VCBs, transport & infrastructure applications |
| Fuji Electric | ~27,000 | 1923 | Compact, energy-efficient VCBs for utilities and industry |
| Meiden America Switchgear, Inc. | N/A | Subsidiary of Meidensha | ANSI/IEEE VCBs, U.S.-made switchgear |
| Hubbell Incorporated | ~19,000 | 1888 | Medium-voltage switchgear including VCBs |
| American Breakers | N/A | ~2001 | Surplus VCB distribution, OEM-sourced units |
Founded in 2013, GOTO Electric is a China-based manufacturer known for high-voltage switchgear and VCBs. With over 150 employees and a 1,500 ㎡ facility in Zhejiang, GOTO offers a full range of products like vacuum circuit breakers, auto reclosers, surge arresters, insulators, and cable accessories. The company emphasizes quality with advanced testing labs and holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 certifications. It serves global utilities, industrial users, and renewable energy projects.
Founded: 1847 | Headquarters: Germany | Employees: ~300,000 (global)
Siemens is one of the top global vacuum circuit breaker suppliers, with over 175 years of engineering excellence. Its VCB solutions are widely adopted in smart grids, energy infrastructure, and industrial automation. Siemens products feature vacuum arc extinction technology, digital integration, and remote diagnostics. As a trusted VCB manufacturer, Siemens delivers future-ready protection equipment that ensures electrical system reliability.
Founded: 1988 | Headquarters: Switzerland | Employees: ~105,000
ABB is a leading vacuum circuit breaker company, offering a broad range of medium-voltage VCBs across power distribution and renewable integration projects. Known for high-performance vacuum interrupters, ABB also provides smart grid-ready solutions with IEC-compliant certifications. Its R&D-driven product line meets the needs of utilities, substations, and mission-critical infrastructure.
Founded: 1836 | Headquarters: France | Employees: ~160,000
Schneider Electric is a global VCB supplier focused on energy-efficient automation. Its vacuum circuit breaker products are embedded in IoT-enabled smart systems, providing real-time monitoring and analytics. Schneider targets data centers, utility substations, and commercial buildings, ensuring safe arc quenching, space-saving designs, and robust protection mechanisms.
Founded: 1911 | Headquarters: Ireland | Employees: ~85,000
Eaton stands out among vacuum circuit breaker manufacturers for its compact and durable designs. Its products offer overload protection and fault isolation for large facilities and power grids. Eaton VCBs are tested under strict quality control, and the company provides strong after-sales technical support, making it a reliable VCB supplier for both OEMs and EPC contractors.
Founded: 2006 | Headquarters: United States
Circuit Breaker Wholesale is a unique player among vacuum circuit breaker suppliers in North America, offering reconditioned, surplus, and OEM vacuum breakers. Serving MRO buyers and contractors, the company provides fast delivery and competitive pricing. While not a direct VCB manufacturer, it helps fill gaps in system upgrades and hard-to-source parts.
Founded: 1892 | Headquarters: United States | Employees: ~130,000
GE’s Grid Solutions division is a well-known vacuum circuit breaker manufacturer with global reach. Their modular, type-tested VCBs are designed for transmission systems, substations, and industrial networks. GE’s expertise in vacuum interrupter manufacturing ensures arc stability and long lifecycle, supported by its extensive global service network.
Founded: 1921 | Headquarters: Japan | Employees: ~150,000
As one of the top VCB manufacturers in Asia, Mitsubishi Electric delivers vacuum circuit breakers with high dielectric strength and fast switching speed. Their breakers are trusted in critical applications like airports, transport hubs, and power plants. Mitsubishi’s proprietary vacuum interrupter technology enhances safety and operational reliability in high-load environments.
Founded: 1923 | Headquarters: Japan | Employees: ~27,000
Fuji Electric is a strategic VCB supplier for the renewable and industrial sectors. With a focus on compact design and eco-friendly arc quenching, Fuji products are optimized for tight spaces and sustainable energy grids. Its vacuum circuit breaker manufacturing process emphasizes material purity and long-term performance.
Founded: Subsidiary of Meidensha | Headquarters: North Carolina, USA
A division of Japan’s Meidensha Corporation, Meiden America manufactures vacuum circuit breakers that conform to ANSI/IEEE standards. The company operates a modern VCB factory in the U.S. and serves utilities, OEMs, and large-scale infrastructure projects. Their vacuum interrupters are known for superior arc extinction and low contact resistance.
Founded: 1888 | Headquarters: United States | Employees: ~19,000
Hubbell is a recognized name among vacuum circuit breaker companies serving the North American market. Their medium-voltage switchgear includes reliable VCBs tailored for commercial buildings, campuses, and utilities. Hubbell emphasizes rugged design, ease of installation, and ongoing technical support, making it a favored option for professional buyers.
Founded: ~2001 | Headquarters: United States
American Breakers specializes in sourcing and distributing low and medium-voltage VCBs across the U.S. market. Though not a direct VCB manufacturer, it works closely with global circuit breaker suppliers like Siemens, ABB, and Eaton to offer surplus and discontinued inventory. The company serves procurement managers and maintenance professionals looking for rare or cost-effective VCB solutions.
Choosing a reliable vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) supplier goes beyond price — it’s about long-term performance, safety, and system compatibility. Here’s what to look for:
Prioritize suppliers with years of proven expertise in the circuit breaker market. Established manufacturers like GOTO Electric, with 20+ years of experience, often offer better quality control, proven product performance, and global project references.
Ensure products meet your technical and regulatory standards.
The VCB should match your system voltage — typically 11kV, 33kV, or higher.
Select a breaker rated for your load and fault current — e.g., 630A to 2500A, 25kA to 31.5kA.
Look for compliance with IEC, ANSI, and certifications like ISO, CE, or type-test reports to meet project and audit requirements.
Modern VCBs should be space-saving and easy to install. Modular, withdrawable, or front-access designs reduce cabinet space and simplify wiring.
High-quality VCBs feature:
Reliable arc-quenching in the vacuum interrupter
Mechanical interlocks for operator safety
Clear position indicators and isolation functions
Compare not just purchase price, but total cost of ownership — including expected lifespan, spare part access, and maintenance needs.
A good supplier provides:
Technical documentation & training
On-site or remote support
Fast spare parts delivery
Optional monitoring tools for newer smart VCBs
Vacuum circuit breakers play a vital role in today’s power distribution networks, offering arc extinction without harmful gases. Choosing the right vacuum circuit breaker supplier is critical, from global leaders like Siemens and ABB to emerging manufacturers like GOTO Electric. By assessing technical specs, industry experience, and support services, you can select the best VCB supplier to ensure long-term reliability and efficiency.
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