Current connection and/or cut-off device comprising permanent contacts with reduced wear

The invention relates to a current connection and/or cut-off device comprising a pair of permanent contacts (3, 4), at least one of the contacts (3, 4) of the pair being movable. At least one permanent contact (3, 4) of the pair comprises a main part (3.1, 4.1) having a free end and a terminal protection part (3.2, 4.2) secured to the free end of the main part (3.1, 4.1), and comes into mechanical and electrical contact with the other permanent contact (4, 3) of the pair only during an opening or closing manoeuvre of the pair. Said terminal protection part (3.2, 4.2) is made from a unique transition metal having a melting temperature that is strictly higher than that of the main part (3.1, 4.1) to which it is secured, or an oxide or a carbide of such a metal, or a zinc oxide. The invention is particularly applicable to high-voltage or medium-voltage circuit breakers.