Low Voltage Switchboard Manufacturing

What is Low Voltage Switchgear?

Low voltage switchgear plays a crucial role in the safe and efficient distribution of electrical power in modern facilities. It is essential to understand the different components, types, functions, and benefits of low voltage switchgear to ensure the smooth operation of electrical systems and prevent hazards.

What is Low Voltage Switchgear?

Low voltage switchgear is an electrical panel that regulates and distributes electrical power in buildings, industries, and other facilities with voltages below 1000V. It is the first point of contact for power distribution from the transformer to various circuits in the facility. The switchgear ensures that the electrical power is safely distributed and controlled to avoid electrical hazards, power surges, and other related issues.

Components of Low Voltage Switchgear

Low voltage switchgear comprises several components that work together to regulate and distribute electrical power. The main components of low voltage switchgear include the following:

Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker is an electrical switch that automatically interrupts the flow of electrical current in a circuit when it exceeds a specific threshold. It protects the electrical system from overloads, short circuits, and other faults that can cause damage to the equipment.

Busbars

Busbars are metallic conductors that carry electrical power within the switchgear. They are responsible for distributing power from the circuit breaker to different circuits in the facility.

Fuses

Fuses are electrical safety devices that protect the electrical system from overloads and short circuits. They interrupt the flow of electrical current when it exceeds the rated current, thereby preventing damage to the equipment.

Contactors

Contactors are electromechanical switches that control the flow of electrical power to various circuits in the facility. They provide a reliable and safe method of controlling the power supply to the different circuits.

Protective Relays

Protective relays are devices that monitor the electrical system for abnormal conditions, such as overloads, faults, and other related issues. They activate the circuit breaker to interrupt the flow of electrical current when necessary to prevent damage to the equipment.

Types of Low Voltage Switchgear

There are different types of low voltage switchgear that are designed to meet the specific needs of different facilities. The most common types of low voltage switchgear include the following:

Metal-Enclosed Switchgear

Metal-enclosed switchgear is a type of low voltage switchgear that encloses all the electrical components in a metal casing. It is designed to protect the electrical system from environmental hazards, such as dust, moisture, and other related issues.

Metal-Clad Switchgear

Metal-clad switchgear is a type of low voltage switchgear that features a separate compartment for each component. It is designed for indoor use and provides a high level of safety and protection for the electrical system.

Low Voltage Power Circuit Breaker Switchgear

Low voltage power circuit breaker switchgear is a type of low voltage switchgear that features a circuit breaker as the main switching and interrupting device. It is designed for high-current applications and provides reliable and safe power distribution.

Outdoor Switchgear

Outdoor switchgear is a type of low voltage switchgear that is designed for outdoor use. It is constructed with weather-resistant materials and provides reliable and safe power distribution in harsh environments.

Withdrawable Switchgear

Withdrawable switchgear is a type of low voltage switchgear that features a draw-out design. The electrical components can be easily removed from the switchgear for maintenance and repair purposes.

Functions of Low Voltage Switchgear

The main function of low voltage switchgear is to regulate and distribute electrical power in a safe and efficient manner. It is responsible for controlling the flow of electrical power from the transformer to different circuits in the facility. Low voltage switchgear also ensures that the electrical system is protected from overloads, short circuits, and other related issues.

Benefits of Low Voltage Switchgear

Low voltage switchgear offers several benefits, including the following:

• Improved safety: Low voltage switchgear protects the electrical system from overloads, short circuits, and other hazards that can cause damage to the equipment or harm to people.
• Efficient power distribution: Low voltage switchgear ensures that electrical power is distributed in a safe and efficient manner, reducing the risk of power surges and other related issues.
• Reduced downtime: With proper maintenance, low voltage switchgear can operate smoothly for years, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
• Customizable design: Low voltage switchgear can be designed to meet the specific needs of different facilities, ensuring that the electrical system operates efficiently and safely.

Maintenance of Low Voltage Switchgear

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the smooth operation of low voltage switchgear. Regular inspections and testing can help detect any issues and prevent equipment failure. Some of the maintenance tasks for low voltage switchgear include the following:

• Cleaning and lubrication of electrical components
• Inspection and testing of circuit breakers, contactors, and protective relays
• Replacement of worn-out parts
• Verification of proper connections and grounding

Advancements in Low Voltage Switchgear

Advancements in technology have led to the development of more advanced and efficient low voltage switchgear. Some of the recent advancements include the following:

• Digital monitoring systems that provide real-time data on the electrical system
• Smart switchgear that can automatically detect faults and isolate them
• Modular switchgear that allows for easy expansion and customization

Summary

Low voltage switchgear plays a crucial role in the safe and efficient distribution of electrical power in modern facilities. It comprises several components that work together to regulate and distribute electrical power. There are different types of low voltage switchgear that are designed to meet the specific needs of different facilities. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the smooth operation of low voltage switchgear. With advancements in technology, low voltage switchgear is becoming more advanced and efficient.

CORR Solutions Electrical provides custom low voltage industrial switchgear solutions to our customers. The switchgear industry is facing a major challenge of long lead times, with the industry standard being over one year. This poses significant challenges to the industry and its customers, including increased costs, longer project timelines, and reduced flexibility.

To tackle this challenge, CORR Solutions Electrical has developed a unique approach to building and delivering low voltage industrial switchgear in under 90 days. Our approach is based on three key factors: advanced manufacturing techniques, a collaborative approach with our customers, and digitalization.

The advantages of CORR Solutions Electrical’s approach are numerous. Customers are able to get customized switchgear solutions in a fraction of the time it would take using the industry standard approach. Additionally, the collaborative approach ensures that the final product meets the customer’s needs perfectly, while digitalization enhances the accuracy and efficiency of the process.