How to Choose Switchgear Equipment According to Your Needs

This guide provides basic information that can assist you in making the right decision by learning the principles that switchgear exhibits to maintain the smoothness and safety of high-voltage systems. It will also help you understand how to choose switchgear based on your specific needs and requirements.

The most common method of how to choose Switchgear involves various approaches that require a deep understanding of the functional needs and specific conditions relevant for each application.

Voltage assessment is critical in the selection process as it serves as the primary guideline for how to choose switchgear for the intended application. 

Understanding the impact of voltage evaluation and its impact on device performance and reliability is critical to achieving optimal electrical results for the assigned system

Factors to Consider When Selecting a High Voltage Switch Disconnector

Selecting the correct high-voltage switch disconnector includes a careful assessment of several important elements:

1. Voltage Level

The voltage level on the power distribution system is the first factor you should consider as it will affect the type and size of switch equipment that needs to be used. In general, switches fall into three categories based on their voltage level: low voltage (LV), medium voltage (MV), and high voltage (HV). 

LV switches work at voltages up to 1 kV, and medium voltage (MV) work at voltages between 1 kV and 36 kV. 

The higher the voltage level used, the more complex and expensive the equipment required. This is because low-voltage (LV) switches operate at voltages up to 1 kV.

2. Voltage Rating

The rated current of the power distribution system is the second component to be considered as it affects the size and performance of the switching equipment to be used. 

The current rating of the switching equipment refers to the maximum current that can be delivered continuously without resulting in excessive heating or damage to the parts. 

The current rating of this electrical equipment is influenced by many things, such as the required load demand, the ability to cope with short-circuit faults, and the temperature around the power distribution system. 

Therefore, it is necessary to select electrical equipment with a current rating that is higher than the expected load current as well as the fault current that may occur in the system. 

In addition, it is very important to consider the derating factor adjusted for the environmental conditions in which the equipment will be used, such as temperature and humidity.

These current ratings greatly affect how the system works and the switch equipment as a whole. Some of the reasons why these current ratings are so important are as follows: 

• The measured current determines the power required by the system and the type of supply source used, such as a transformer, RMU (Ring Main Unit), or an integrated, full-package switching device. 

• The measured current also affects the type of feeder used as well as the type of isolation required to ensure smooth and safe operation of the distribution system. 

• The size and number of cables required to transmit power effectively and safely are affected by the measured current, so it is very important to select the right cable size to avoid power loss or excessive heating. 

By carefully considering these current values, you can ensure the power distribution system works properly, safely, and efficiently and avoid damage to switching equipment and other components.

3. Working Climate

In selecting equipment, matters such as temperature and humidity and whether there are hazardous materials or substances in the working environment should be considered. 

It is very important to ensure that the switch breaker used is able to withstand extreme conditions as it may affect the performance of the equipment. 

Some types of switch breakers are specially made to withstand harsh and inhospitable conditions, such as extreme weather or pollution. They are suitable for use outdoors or in places that are directly exposed to unpredictable environmental conditions.

4. Reliability and availability

The fourth factor you should consider is the reliability and availability of your power distribution system, as these two factors determine the smoothness and security of your power supply. 

Reliability refers to how likely it is that your system can operate as intended without failing, while availability refers to the percentage of time that your system is operating properly and ready to serve the load.

5. Safety and protection

Fifth, consider the safety and protection of your power distribution system. This is critical to avoid harm and damage to personnel and equipment. 

The coordination, discrimination, and selectivity of switching equipment are critical to system safety and protection. 

The ability of a switch to locate and resolve a problem before it damages more important equipment is called coordination, while discrimination is the ability of a switch to disconnect only the part of the system that has malfunctioned without interfering with the parts that are still functioning properly. 

The switch's ability to operate devices in a predetermined order to ensure the smooth running of the system is called selectivity. 

Select switch equipment that has high coordination, discrimination, and selectivity, as well as proper isolation, grounding, and the ability to cope with arc faults.

Read More Types of Switchgear and Their Functions in the Electrical Industry

6. Cost and efficiency

The sixth factor you should consider is the cost and efficiency of your power distribution system, as both of these greatly affect the economic aspects and environmental impact of your project. 

The cost and efficiency of the system are influenced by a number of factors, such as the initial investment required, the operational costs that must be incurred while the system is in operation, and the energy losses that occur in the electrical equipment used. You should choose the equipment that best suits your needs.

In addition to cost and efficiency factors, you should also consider the effect of the power distribution system that will be used on the environment. 

Ensure that the electrical equipment you choose meets compliance standards with applicable environmental regulations and is socially responsible, as this will help maintain your project's reputation and support its long-term sustainability. 

Choosing environmentally friendly and compliant electrical equipment can help the environment, your company's reputation, and overall project sustainability.

Read More Function of Switchgear in High Voltage Systems

Conclusion

To ensure the best performance and reliability of the implemented electrical system, and must understand various aspects, such as voltage and current evaluation, working climate conditions, availability, and safety elements. 

By carefully assessing these factors and considering the specific needs for each application, engineers can ensure the best performance and reliability of the applied electrical system.