Fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear is a common medium voltage distribution equipment widely used in urban power grids, industrial parks, and commercial buildings to distribute electrical energy and protect circuits. Its characteristics are compact structure, safety and reliability, suitable for ring network power supply systems. This guide will focus on its characteristics, installation points, operation skills, and maintenance methods, providing you with a practical guide to help you quickly get started and ensure stable device operation.
1、 What is a fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear? What are the advantages?
This switchgear is mainly used in AC power systems ranging from 3.6-12 kV, and is particularly suitable for ring network power supply mode, where multiple lines form a closed loop, and other lines can continue to supply power when one line fails. Its shell is a fully enclosed metal structure, with internal components fixedly installed and strong protective performance. The advantages are obvious:
High safety: Fully enclosed design to prevent electric shock and dust intrusion, with built-in isolation measures to reduce the risk of fault spread.
Good reliability: Supports ring network power supply, single point failure does not affect overall power supply, and has strong stability.
Compact size: With a compact structure and small footprint, it is suitable for places with limited space.
Easy installation: Fixed design, components do not require frequent disassembly, installation and maintenance are relatively effortless.
Strong adaptability: able to cope with complex environments such as humidity and dust, with high durability.
Common application scenarios include urban power distribution networks, factory distribution rooms, residential substations, and other places that require stable power supply.
2、 Installation points: Stability and safety are the foundation
The installation of fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear is directly related to the safety and stability of later use, and must be meticulous and thorough. The following are the key steps:
Adequate site preparation: The installation site should be dry, ventilated, and free of corrosive gases. The ground should be flat and solid, with a bearing capacity that meets the weight of the equipment (usually several hundred kilograms). Leave at least 1.2 meters of operating space in front for easy maintenance.
The foundation should be firmly fixed: the bottom of the cabinet should be installed on a pre embedded steel groove or concrete foundation and fixed with anchor bolts. After fixing, check the levelness and keep the error within 2 millimeters to avoid shaking during operation.
Cabinet splicing should be precise: When multiple switch cabinets are installed side by side, the cabinets should be aligned and the connecting bolts should be tightened to ensure overall stability. The indirect grounding wire of the cabinet must be connected to form a complete grounding protection.
Cable connection should be standardized: when connecting incoming and outgoing cables, the stripping length and joint compression should meet the requirements to prevent poor contact. The cable is firmly fixed to avoid loosening caused by pulling.
Internal inspection should be meticulous: during installation, confirm that the positions of internal isolation switches, circuit breakers, and other components are correct and the connections are not loose. The cabinet door is tightly closed, and the sealing strip is undamaged to prevent dust or small animals from entering.
Before powering on, a comprehensive test should be conducted: after installation, check whether all bolts are tightened, whether the circuit connections are correct, and use a megohmmeter to measure the insulation resistance (usually not less than a few megohms). No load test run, confirm no abnormalities before officially powering on.
Installation is recommended to be operated by a professional team, strictly following the manufacturer's drawings and instructions to ensure no errors occur.
3、 Operation skills: Safety and efficiency are the core
The operation of fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear is not complicated, but it involves high voltage electricity, and safety must be given top priority. Here are a few key points to consider when operating:
Familiar with the operation panel: There are indicator lights and operation handles on the cabinet. Before operation, understand the functions of each handle, such as closing, opening, grounding switch, etc. If you don't understand, just look up the manual or ask a professional, don't move around.
Strictly follow the process: Before closing, confirm that there is no short circuit or fault on the load side, the circuit breaker is in the open position, and the isolation switch and grounding switch are in the correct state. When disconnecting, first disconnect the load and then operate the circuit breaker to avoid live operation.
Caution should be exercised when switching power lines: When switching power lines, confirm that the target line has no faults, disconnect the current line first, and then close the new line to prevent short circuits or overloads. Strictly follow the instructions for the operation sequence.
To prevent misoperation, it is important to remember that equipment usually has anti misoperation design, such as the inability to operate isolation switches when the circuit breaker is not opened. Do not forcefully unlock during operation, strictly follow the steps to avoid accidents.
Safety protection should be in place: wear insulated gloves and boots during operation, and if necessary, wear a safety helmet. It is strictly prohibited to open the cabinet door during equipment operation to prevent touching high-voltage components.
It is recommended that experienced personnel accompany novice operators to practice simple operations first, familiarize themselves with them, and then handle them independently.
4、 Maintenance method: Keep the equipment stable for a long time
The working environment of fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear is complex, and inadequate maintenance may lead to malfunctions or safety hazards. Here are several key points for maintenance:
Regularly clean to prevent dust accumulation from affecting heat dissipation or insulation performance. Clean with a dry cloth or vacuum cleaner, and turn off the power before cleaning the interior.
Contact inspection should be careful: the dynamic and static contacts of circuit breakers and isolating switches are prone to wear and tear. They should be inspected every six months and replaced promptly if any erosion or deformation is found. The contact pressure of the contact should be appropriate, as being too loose or too tight can affect the power supply.
Insulation performance testing: Use a megohmmeter to test the insulation resistance once a year to ensure that the value meets the requirements (usually not less than a few megohms). Identify a downward trend, check for moisture or aging, and promptly address the issue.
Grounding protection needs to be confirmed: the cabinet grounding wire connection should be secure, and the grounding resistance should be checked quarterly to ensure that it is within a safe range (usually less than 4 ohms).
Mechanical components need to be lubricated: the operating handle and switch mechanism should be inspected monthly, and a small amount of lubricating oil should be added to the moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Avoid oil contamination entering the contact area to prevent short circuits.
Operation records should be kept: every operation, maintenance, and malfunction should be recorded, including time, phenomena, and handling results. This can help you discover patterns of problems and prevent major malfunctions in advance.
Develop a schedule for maintenance, and implement it by week, month, and year to ensure that no items are missed. Key spare parts such as contacts and circuit breakers should be prepared in advance to avoid production stoppage in case of malfunction.
5、 Common problems and solutions
Circuit breaker refusal to close or open: Check whether the control circuit is disconnected, whether the contacts are burned, and whether the mechanical mechanism is stuck. Clean or replace components and retest.
There is abnormal noise inside the cabinet: it may be due to loose bolts or aging components. After cutting off the power, check the fastening situation and confirm that there are no abnormalities before turning on the power.
The indicator light is not on: Check whether the control power supply is normal, whether the light bulb is damaged, and whether the circuit is loose. After troubleshooting one by one, repair it.
Poor sealing of cabinet door: Check whether the sealing strip is aged or damaged, replace it in a timely manner, and ensure dust and water resistance.
6、 Selection and usage suggestions
Selection depends on requirements: Select the model according to the load size and power supply mode, leaving a certain margin for current capacity to avoid overload. For models with high demand for ring network power supply, choose models that support dual power switching.
The installation location should be reasonable: away from heat and vibration sources, reserve space for heat dissipation and operation, and ensure good ventilation.
Environmental adaptation: Select equipment with high protection level for humid or highly corrosive environments, and choose low-temperature resistant models for cold regions.
Training is indispensable: Operators and maintenance personnel must receive training before taking up their posts, familiarize themselves with equipment structure and safety regulations, and prevent misoperation.
Manufacturer support should keep up: when choosing, prioritize brands with after-sales service, which can provide assistance in installation, debugging, and maintenance, reducing later troubles.
7、 Cost and benefit analysis
The price of fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear varies depending on the configuration and brand, usually ranging from tens of thousands to tens of thousands, and the initial investment is not small. But it has high safety, strong reliability, and can effectively reduce power outage losses and accident risks. In the long run, its cost-effectiveness is good. Especially for urban power grids and industrial parks, the benefits of stable power supply far exceed equipment costs.
summary
Fixed metal enclosed ring network switchgear is a reliable choice for medium voltage distribution, and installation should ensure a stable foundation and standardized connections; Be familiar with the process and pay attention to safety during operation; Regularly clean and inspect the contacts and insulation performance during maintenance. Based on the actual load and environment, combined with professional training and manufacturer support, equipment selection can maximize its effectiveness and ensure stable operation of the power system. As long as you manage and maintain it carefully, this' power center 'can provide solid support for your production and life.
