2003-08-28 - ABB has gained technical acceptance from the Electricity Association (EA) and Network Rail for the new ZX1.2 range of metal-clad gas-insulated medium voltage (MV) switchgear for use at 33kV for ratings up to 31.5kA and 2000A. The ZX1.2 switchgear has successfully completed the rigorous testing demanded by the EA and Network Rail and as a result has been issued with an EA Notice of Conformity Certificate and has also been accepted for use on the prestigious Network Rail Southern Region Power Supply Upgrade project.
The ZX1.2 range has been designed with a modular, plug in approach to meet the specific needs of Electricity Distribution Network owners and operators by providing compact, flexible substation configurations that offer reliable and cost efficient switchgear solutions for single busbar applications. ZX1.2 is also ideally suited for a wide variety of utility and industrial applications wherever electricity is generated or distributed.
The key features of the ZX1.2 design include laser welded stainless steel enclosures, compact modular construction and the introduction of plug-in technology which facilitates simple, controlled connections of, busbar, cable, test bushings and voltage transformer, without the need for ‘on site’ gas handling equipment.
All maintenance-free live components, such as switching devices and busbars are contained under SF6 in gas-tight enclosures, which eliminate the effects of ageing processes and environmental influences to ensure maximum operator availability and a long service life.
The ZX1.2 design also offers easy cable access at the rear with termination fixing at a convenient height of 1250mm, generous provision for conventional control and protection devices, dedicated cable test sockets and full mechanical interlocking between the disconnector/earthing selector and the circuit breaker.
Current transformers can be mounted either in the circuit breaker gas compartment or externally on the HV cables. Alternatively, options are available for current and voltage sensors.
ZX1.2 switchgear was assessed against Electricity Association Technical Standard (EATS) 41-36 “Distribution switchgear for service up to 36kV (cable and overhead conductor connected)” and has been issued with a Notice of Conformity (NOC) certificate number 1027.
The Electricity Association
The Electricity Association (EA) is the national trade association representing the interests of electricity generation, transmission, distribution and supply companies in the UK. More information is available at www.electricity.org.uk