According to the different forms of energy, the operating mechanism can be divided into manual operating mechanism (CS), electromagnetic operating mechanism (CD), spring operating mechanism (CT), motor operating mechanism (CJ). The closing energy of the operating mechanism is fundamentally from manpower or electricity. These two energy sources can also be converted into other forms of energy, such as electromagnetic energy, spring potential energy, gravity potential energy, gas or liquid compression energy, etc.

The opening operation of most circuit breakers can rely on the breaking spring installed on the circuit breaker to provide energy, but some pneumatic and hydraulic operating mechanisms can also use the energy provided by the operating mechanism itself to complete the opening operation of the circuit breaker. The operating mechanism is generally an independent product, and the operating mechanism of one type can be equipped with several different types of circuit breakers; Similarly, one type of circuit breaker can also be equipped with several different types of operating mechanisms. There are also operating mechanisms that are integrated with circuit breakers, such as compressed air circuit breakers. Some circuit breakers are only equipped with their special operating mechanism.

The lifting mechanism is the mechanism that drives the moving contact of the circuit breaker. It can make the moving contact move according to a certain trajectory, usually linear or approximately linear motion. The transmission mechanism is the intermediate link connecting the operating mechanism and the lifting mechanism. Because there is often a certain distance between the operating mechanism and the lifting mechanism, and their direction of movement is often inconsistent, it is necessary to add a transmission mechanism; However, in some cases, the transmission mechanism can not be used, and the lifting mechanism and transmission mechanism are usually composed of connecting rod mechanism.

The circuit breaker operates at a high speed. In order to reduce the impact and avoid the damage of parts, it is necessary to install the buffer between parting and closing. The buffer is mostly installed near the lifting mechanism. The operating mechanism operates according to the opening and closing signals. According to the operation and maintenance requirements, in addition to the operating mechanism should be divided, closing electrical signal indication, the operating mechanism and circuit breaker should also have a mechanical indicator reflecting the opening and closing position.