SIEMENS BRINGS IEC COMPLIANT WITHDRAWABLE SWITCHGEAR TO THE UK

Phil Black - PII Editor 06/02/2008

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Siemens Transmission and Distribution Ltd are launching a range of withdrawable switchgear for industrial applications and power distribution systems into the UK market.

The new range of factory assembled, fully type tested switchgear, called SIMOPRIME, is compliant with the new IEC 62271-200 standard and is available in four different ratings, up to 7.2kV, 12kV, 15kV and maximum rating of 17.5kV, 31.5kA. The switchgear, is an air insulated, metal-enclosed, metal-clad medium voltage product which uses vacuum switching technology and is specifically designed to maximise operator safety and service continuity.

To maximise safety, SIMOPRIME has been tested successfully for all the mandatory type test requirements under IEC 62271-200 and importantly has gained internal arc fault classification in line with the newly defined test conditions, thus protecting operators from the effects of such a fault.

Crucially, all switching operations, including emergency manual operations are conducted behind a closed door. Furthermore, SIMOPRIME is equipped with preventive mechanical interlocks to avoid incorrect operations. For example, movement of the switching device truck in to service is only possible when the circuit breaker is switched off, the front door is closed, the low voltage plug is connected and the earthing switch is off.

In terms of productivity, SIMOPRIME utilises Siemens maintenance free vacuum interrupters resulting in high reliability and low maintenance and life cycle costs. In line with the Loss of Service Continuity classification under the new IEC standard, SIMOPRIME meets the highest level of service continuity. Furthermore, easy access to cables and busbars result in shorter installation time and lower installation costs.

Steve Goldspink, Marketing Manager at Siemens Transmission and Distribution Limited commented on the new switchgear: “For many years British industry has relied on fixed pattern switchgear because of a lack of availability of withdrawable switchgear in the UK market. SIMOPRIME will help fill this gap by ensuring that industry has access to modern withdrawable switchgear which has been type tested to the latest standards, ensuring optimum operator safety and productivity.”

For more information contact Siemens Transmission and Distribution Ltd (STDL), Princess Street, Manchester

Tel: +44 (0) 0161 446 5200

E-mail: Stephen.goldspink@siemens.com Web: www.siemens.co.uk