What is electrical switchgear guidance?

This guidance is aimed at owners and operators of electrical switchgear in industrial and commercial organisations. It may also be useful to others. It will help managers, engineers and others to understand their responsibilities and duties in the selection, use, operation and maintenance of high-voltage switchgear.

What are the rated values for HV switchgear?

The . rated values for HV switchgear are 50 Hz and 60 Hz. Other values are possible, for example 16 2/3 Hz and 25 Hz for railways applications. • These applications may require special types of circuit-breakers as the conditions for current interruption are different from those at 50Hz or 60Hz, and may be more severe.

What type of insulator should be used for HV switchgear?

Gas with good dielectric properties (e.g. SF6) or vacuum. Insulators in porcelain or composite of appropriate length. The . rated values for HV switchgear are 50 Hz and 60 Hz. Other values are possible, for example 16 2/3 Hz and 25 Hz for railways applications.

Why do you need a switchgear maintenance manual?

It may also be useful to others. It will help managers, engineers and others to understand their responsibilities and duties in the selection, use, operation and maintenance of high-voltage switchgear. Some knowledge of electrical switchgear and distribution systems is necessary to gain most benefit from this document.

What should be planned before ordering a switchgear unit?

Safety features need to be planned before switchgear units are ordered. The requirement of locking off parts of the system (for carrying out maintenance work on the associated plant) should be finalised. Proper interlocking arrangements should be provided for this purpose.

Does high voltage switchgear need a leak check?

Most large high-voltage swithgear equipment is fitted with a pressure or density monitoring device, so doesn’t require leak checks. Operator and service companies share responsibility for stopping SF 6 leaks. This is a requirement from 1 January 2015. You didn’t have to check high voltage switchgear for leaks under the 2006 regulation.