We explore what low voltage switchgear (lv switchgear) is, the importance of regular servicing of equipment and the protection that LV switchgear offers.
What is Switchgear?
The main functions of lv switchgear are to provide-
- Electrical Protection
- Electrical Isolation of installations, circuits and equipment
- Local or remote switching
Switchgear systems connected to the electric supply system, de-energise equipment for maintenance, and defect testing. Without switchgear in place, whenever there is a short circuit or failure on the power system, a heavy current runs through the electric equipment, damaging the equipment and disrupting the end user.
Switchgear is used in electric utility transmission and distribution systems at commercial or industrial facilities of varying size. The safety standards for electrical switchgear are defined by IEC in Europe.
LV Switchgear
Low voltage switchgear is rated up to 1KV and consists of low voltage switches, earth leakage circuit breakers, HRC fuses, electrical isolators, Air circuit breakers (ACB), Moulded case circuit breakers (MCCB) and miniature circuit breakers (MCB).
With LV switchgear, electrical appliances are safeguarded against short circuit and overload by an electrical circuit breaker, but the operator is not protected against internal faults. By using an earth leakage circuit breaker, which detects leakage current, operators will be guarded as the appliance is disconnected before any harm is done.
LV Switchgear Offers Electrical Protection
A key function of low voltage switchgear is to provide electrical protection against thermal and mechanical stresses of short circuit currents. This is crucial in limiting the dangerous consequences of excessive currents and separating the defective current from the rest of the installation. LV switchgear provides protection to human operatives and appliances such as electric motors.
Using LV Switchgear for Isolation Purposes
Isolation allows for the separation of a circuit or apparatus from an energised system, so that the isolated part can be worked on or maintained in safety.
Local and Remote Control Utilising a LV Switchgear
Having switchgear control allows the operator to modify a loaded system for the purpose of functional control and emergency switching. Operators can energise or de-energise a part of an electrical system or even an individual piece of equipment. It also allows for an emergency stop, when a live circuit has become dangerous.
Maintenance Services for LV Switchgear
Regular services of any make and size of low voltage switchgear should be scheduled to ensure reliable ongoing operation. The team at Shenton Group carry out annual maintenance work, or one-off servicing for LV switchgear including a visual inspection, clean and lubrication.
Contact our team for further information, or to speak to us about ongoing maintenance services.
Examples of Switchgear
Switchgear is a combination of fuses, electrical disconnect switches or breakers, which isolate, protect and control electrical equipment. Examples of switchgear include:
- Fuses
- Switches
- Relays
- Isolators
- Circuit breakers
- Contactors
Shenton Group recently carried out a low voltage switchgear project in London Docklands, and another in Liverpool for a telecoms company. If you require support, advice or are keen to start a project involving low voltage switchgear, then get in touch today.