In electrical distribution, what is a recloser used for?

A recloser is a vital component in electrical distribution systems, primarily designed to enhance reliability by automatically restoring power after a temporary fault. When a fault occurs—such as a tree branch coming into contact with a power line—the recloser detects the problem and momentarily interrupts the power supply to the affected area. If the fault is transient and clears within a short period, the recloser will automatically close the circuit again, restoring power without the need for human intervention. This ability to quickly restore service helps minimize outage durations and improves the overall efficiency of the electrical distribution system.

The other options refer to functions outside the scope of a recloser's purpose. Converting AC to DC voltage is done by rectifiers, while managing power between generators involves different types of equipment, such as automatic generation control systems. Regulating temperature in power lines pertains to thermal management devices rather than the operational role of a recloser.