How to design MV switchgear panel

The design of the insulation system for metal-enclosed switchgear is based upon life expectancy of about 30 years.

For very compact-built substations which are not accessible, the designation ‘small’ or ‘compact substation’ has become popular.

Interlock-controlled accessible compartment.

An interlock in the the panel grants access when live parts are isolated and earthed. 

Switchgear substation MUST provide a high level of safety so that both operator protection and fault-free network operation is ensured. It must meet the requirement of touch protection and exclude the possibility of maloperation.

If a fault occurs nevertheless, its impact on the fault location should be limited and not entail personal injury.

Switchgear can be assigned to the primary or secondary distribution level.

Primary distribution level are high load and short-circuit currents.

The switchgear is almost completely equipped with circuit-breakers. They switch large consumers, mostly in industrial plants, or cable rings.

Secondary to protection, measuring, and (remote) control, The currents are lower.