How Can I Extend The Life of My Switchgear?

It's no secret that power surges can wreak havoc on your electrical system. Circuits are designed to handle a limited amount of power and when too much current is passed through, it can cause the wiring to overheat. This can damage vital electrical components and even lead to a fire. Switchgear is designed to protect the equipment connected to the power supply from the threat of electrical overload.

What is switchgear? 

Switchgear is a broad term that describes a variety of switchgear that meets a common need: to control, protect and isolate power systems. Although this definition can be extended to include equipment for regulating and metering power systems, circuit breakers, and similar technology.

In the event of an electrical surge, effective switchgear is triggered, automatically interrupting the flow of electricity and protecting the electrical system from damage. Switchgear is also used to de-energize equipment for safety testing, maintenance, and fault clearance.

Low Voltage Fixed-mounted Switchgear     

What are the different types of electrical switchgear?

Most applications require low voltage switchgear or medium voltage switchgear.

Low voltage switchgear is used in a variety of industries such as healthcare, industrial buildings, and water/wastewater to regulate systems up to 1 kV. Depending on the specifications of your facility, you can combine different product features, including

Arc resistance

Positive entry

Space-saving design

Medium voltage switchgear for indoor and outdoor systems up to 75 kV. As applications and budgets vary, medium-voltage equipment is available with three insulation technology options.

Gas-insulated switchgear

Air-insulated switchgear

Shielded solid switchgear

Insulators protect the components within the switchgear and often provide cooling.

High Voltage Switchgear

How does switchgear work?

Different types of switchgear may follow different operating processes. That said, basic switchgear follows a relatively simple process.

In the event of an electrical fault, a relay closes the tripping circuit and disconnects the downstream load. This allows the rest of the circuit to continue operating without interruption, while also protecting vital equipment from damage.

Is there a difference between switchgear and switchboards?

Although many terms are used interchangeably, there is a difference between switchgear and switchboards. Switchgear not only protects and controls the power supply but also disconnects it in the event of a fault. Switchboards, on the other hand, are only used to transmit power to other sources, most commonly in commercial environments.

Switchgear and switchboards are also designed to handle different voltage capacities. High-voltage switchgear can withstand voltages of up to 350 kV, while switchboards are rarely designed to withstand voltages in excess of 600 volts.

Functions of switchgear and protective devices.

The three basic functions of switchgear power systems are - electrical protection, electrical isolation, and control.

It helps to protect motors and appliances. It interrupts a circuit that is experiencing an overload while still allowing current to flow through unaffected circuits.

It also provides isolation of circuits and energized parts of the system. This provides protection for those repairing electrical systems/equipment.

It increases system availability by allowing multiple power supplies to be supplied to the load.

One of the most important components of switchgear is the current interrupting (switching) device, i.e. the circuit breaker. The circuit breaker can be operated manually when required, but can also be automatically "tripped" in the event of an overload or any type of fault in the system. It detects faults through protective relays and triggers them before damage occurs.

How can the service life of switchgear be extended?

The life of switchgear depends on the application and the environment. However, there are ways to extend the service life of this electrical equipment by decades. These include

Regular and preventative maintenance

Arc-flash mitigation

Direct replacement of circuit breakers

Continuous monitoring using sensors

If you want to get more information about the types of switchgear, welcome to contact us today or request a quote.