Achieve compliance in switchgear design to meet safety and regulatory standards

By Staff Report August 2, 2024 11:20 am IST

Ganesh Kothawade, President of the Distribution Solutions Division, Electrification Business at ABB India, remarks that sensors in switchgear mark a shift towards predictive maintenance and fault diagnosis in industrial automation. These technologies enable real-time data analysis for maintenance and improved operational efficiency, aligning with stringent industry standards and sustainability goals.

What unique features distinguish ABB switchgear from commanding a Major market share?

ABB switchgear stands out in the market due to its advanced technology, reliability, and versatility. One of the key differentiators is the internal arc-proof feature that continues to provide safety for personnel and equipment across all major segments with a strong track record. The switchgear is digitally enabled with enhanced safety and sustainability features related to Arc protection, current and Voltage sensors usage, and condition monitoring systems. These switchgear have state-of-the-art numerical relays for seamless communication to upstream and downstream devices. Additionally, we prioritise safety with enhanced protective features and offer customisable solutions tailored to specific industry needs. These attributes improve operational efficiency and ensure long-term reliability, helping us command a significant market share.

How does automation in the manufacturing process impact the quality of switchgear components?

Automation in the manufacturing process has helped enhance the quality by ensuring the consistency and precision of switchgear components. Reduced downtime, improved system reliability, and high standards of accuracy in production are benefits of automation. Any defect or deviation can be identified promptly and addressed with automated quality control measures, such as real-time inspections and testing. It results in higher product reliability and performance, ultimately leading to superior switchgear components that meet stringent industry standards.

How do advanced switchgear with sensors and monitoring systems contribute to predictive maintenance and fault diagnosis in industrial automation?

Digitised switchgear is going to be a necessity rather than a feature. Sensors and monitoring systems provide real-time data on operational conditions in early fault diagnosis and assessing the Right health of switchgear.  Real-time product assessments are possible with an on-premises or cloud solution that guarantees high uptime, immediate response, focused maintenance, and reduced life-cycle costs. The diagnostic information gets collected from intelligent electronic devices, specific sensors, and integrated diagnostic systems. The data collected allows for trend analysis, helping to schedule maintenance activities proactively and minimise unplanned downtime. It leads to operational efficiency and reduced maintenance costs in industrial automation systems.

What factors are necessary to design switchgear to align with industry standards and regulations?

Designing switchgear to align with industry standards and regulations involves several key factors. One must-have is to follow basic IEC standards for specific switchgear types (e.g. IEC 62271-100/200 for MV switchgear). The switchgear must be designed with a compact footprint as space is a premium. In addition, it is beneficial to add features that enhance reliability & energy efficiency. Features such as condition monitoring, Arc safety compliances, and usage of sensors are some of the additions beneficial for overall switchgear performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability aspects.  Providing customised solutions such as E-Houses or Skids is another example of staying agile & aligned towards Industry requirements. ABB has been striving for future-ready solutions in the market for decades.

One of the flagship MV switchgear products, UniGear, has completed 25 years of existence in the market and continues to provide power to customers with the capability to adapt to the market’s sustainability and digital needs. This is a testament to ABB’s continued focus on customers and market needs.

What factors are necessary when selecting switchgear for an industrial application, particularly regarding decarbonisation potential and compliance with industry standards?

Consider recommended industry standards compliance to ensure safety and performance. Secondly, it is a must to account for long-term reliability and efficiency. Hence, consider digitised switchgear equipped with state-of-the-art numerical relays with 61850 protocols, a Motorised rack-in/out solution, and advanced features for predictive maintenance and early fault detection. One should also consider moving away from cast resin CT/VT towards sensor technology that can enhance the decarbonisation potential of switchgear. Furthermore, switching over to non-SF6 gas-insulated switchgear is another option. However, currently, there are some limitations in the availability of the non-SF6 portfolio in the market. This technology has far-reaching decarbonisation potential as its global warming potential (GWP) is nearly zero.