Proper Maintenance for Switchgear Power Systems

Switchgear Devices

The need for electricity to operate factories, businesses, and homes is vast. Many people take the availability of that power source for granted. What goes on behind the scenes? What does it take to keep the electricity flow at the ready so that it is available when needed? There are several factors that play into this answer, but today we are concentrating on switchgear power systems. These systems are very common, but most people are not really aware of what a switchgear power system is and what it does. Here we will shed some light on these devices so that appreciation is realized for the complexity of maintaining energy reliability.

switchgear power systems Classifications

Ten classifications of switchgear power systems are in use today. Within each of the classifications are sub-classifications that make it easier to identify need. For instance, the voltage classification can be identified as low voltage, medium voltage, or high voltage. The classification of the system aids engineers and design team in choosing the correct system for the purpose of the structure. More than one classification can be utilized when constructing and operating switchgear power systems. The number of classifications used is going to be determined by the function that is being supported.

There are many types of switchgear power systems that are used. Apart from the classification mentioned earlier, a key component to the power system is the circuit breaker. circuit breakers regulate the flow of electrical current being distributed over wire. They are a built in safety feature of power grids on all scales. The circuit breaker is designed to interrupt power flow in the case of an electrical emergency. Just as the switchgear power system has several styles, the circuit breaker is available in several amperages. The rating of the breaker is dependent upon the work in which it will perform.

Classifications of Circuit Breakers

Four classifications of circuit breakers are in use, and each has its own specific properties and functions. The breakers can be gas, vacuum, oil, or air, and these breakers are designed in such a way that they can terminate the power source in as little as 30 milliseconds. This is a very important safety feature. Circuit breakers are used to prevent electrical catastrophes. Generally they are incorporated into the design of the switchgear power system, but can also be found outside of the system.

It is vitally important that proper maintenance be performed on switchgear power systems. There are many smaller components that can wear due to normal use. By being proactive in performing system checks and staying current with regular checks, costly repairs can be avoided. These checks also save money for the company through prevention of downtime for non-operational equipment. Whatever the electrical needs of an operation, it is important that the right equipment be utilized to support the functions needed. Nothing could be worse than trying to complete a business or perform a service and realizing that the power needed to support the function is not available because of bad planning or mismanaged equipment.