Circuit breaker and arc chute with shield apparatus

An improved circuit breaker and arc chute has a shield apparatus that includes a number of plate-like shield members (56) that have elongated openings (60) formed therein to receive portions of arc plates (14) therethrough. The portions of the arc plates that pass through the shield member are received in receptacles of a support apparatus that supports the arc plates. The arc plates are themselves configured to retain the shield members against the support apparatus to protect the support apparatus from damage in the event of an electrical arc. Advantageously, the retention of the shield members between portions of the arc plates and portions of the support apparatus enables the shield members to be held in place without the use of adhesives or separate fastening systems. The shield members (56) are structured to generate gases in the presence of an electric arc.