G&W Electric, Inc. has announced a single-phase version of its line of Trident solid dielectric switchgear with SafeVu visible break technology. The completely oil free switchgear provides maintenance-free overcurrent protection and load switching for systems rated through 15 kV, 630 A continuous, and 12.5 symmetrical interrupting.
Thousands of oil fuse cutouts remain in service, using a design that dates to the 1920s. G&W’s new single-phase switchgear offers utilities a safer replacement alternative that is compact and submersible, and features an integral visible break for safety. Fuseless, resettable vacuum interrupters save time and cost compared to stocking and replacing fuse links and maintaining insulating oil.
The switchgear can be used for load break or fault interrupting applications. Multiple mounting configurations are available, meeting tight space constraints in small vaults. Unlike fuse cutouts, the switchgear has the option for motorized operation, which enables remote operation.
The new switchgear is built on the same technology as G&W Electric’s 3-Phase Trident with SafeVu switchgear, the first solid dielectric switchgear to provide a fully integrated visible break solution, and the only solid dielectric switchgear that offers a visible break without oil or fluids.
Because the contacts open inside a vacuum bottle and are not visible, a blade in series with the vacuum bottle provides an integrated visible break. The blade is easily visible through a viewing window molded into the insulating epoxy as an integral part of each module.
Unlike switches that provide a visible break using oil as the insulating medium, Trident with SafeVu eliminates the risk of oil leaks and their associated maintenance. Compared to switches that use air as the dielectric, the Trident with SafeVu is fully submersible. In contrast to SF6 insulated switches, it is compact and environmentally friendly.
Products are available for quotation now. For pricing information, contact a local G&W Electric representative.
