Like grounding switches, this type of switchgear design increases safety by reducing the risk of human error, as confining live conductors in a shielded insulation means there will be no electric field in the air. It also prevents damage to the system caused by external elements like dust, humidity, moisture, and other environmental factors. This means these systems are built to last in aggressive and harsh environments much more effectively than the air- or solid-insulation systems that were staples of past generations. Perhaps most importantly, these systems significantly reduce the risk of arc flash and electrocution. The shielded solid insulation design lets systems stand up to adverse environmental conditions, prevents two- or three-phase faults, and limits internal arcing to low-magnitude, single-phase faults.
Removing the human element makes the switchgear more flexible once installed, reducing cost for managers post-installation as well. When installing this type of system, one simply has to use the existing cable infrastructure. Effectively, this type of switchgear bridges the generational gap between electrical systems, adding contemporary safety features to legacy infrastructure in order to bolster the crucial element: safety.
The fact is archaic electrical distribution systems are no longer able to stand up to modern demands. Adequate shielding protects power systems from external factors that can put them at levels of critical risk most companies cannot afford to take, and this technology has proven to optimize the safety of medium-voltage switchgear.
Modern facilities consume an inordinate amount of power, placing a premium on efficient power-delivery systems able to meet evolving needs. Speed, however, cannot come at the cost of safety, which remains paramount for power sources. Shielded solid insulation technology provides companies with the extra layer of safety desired in power-delivery systems, along with invaluable peace of mind from knowing their switchgear systems can stand up to any challenge.
James Stacy received a degree in electrical engineering from Tennessee Technological University in 1998, a professional engineering license in 2002, and an MBA from Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management in 2014. He is currently the director of offer strategy in Schneider Electric’s U.S. Energy Business. With a focus on offer technology management, Stacy is responsible for offer strategy, including understanding customer values, application requirements, competitive environment, and anticipation of their evolution. His responsibilities also include definition of new offers and existing offer adaptation. Stacy can be reached via e-mail at james.stacy@schneider-electric.com.
