New ABB switchgear is both compact and versatile

ABB’s type EXK-0 high-voltage GIS (gas insulated switchgear) has recently been upgraded with ABB’s new ‘common’ interruptor circuit breakers and is now optimised for applications up to 145kV. Now available with both conventional and digital secondary technology, the well-proven EXK-0 concept offers the ideal combination of compact design and flexibility in use to suit the most demanding substation applications.

The EXK-0 concept comprises a full set of functional bay modules (circuit-breaker, disconnector, earthing switches, instrument transformers, etc.) for the construction of complete substations. The encapsulation of all high-voltage parts and the use of SF6 insulating gas facilitates a very compact substation design. This makes it ideally suited to the creation of indoor substations offering high-levels of reliability and availability yet capable of blending into the local environment. Typical EXK-0 installations include containerised substations, in-building substations and even underground substations. EXK-0 GIS is well proven in the UK at lower voltage levels, and made its debut in the British Isles as part of the 90kV Channel Island Link between Jersey and Guernsey, completed by ABB in 2000.

Key features of the EXK-0 design are:
· new ABB ‘common’ autopuffer interruptor circuit breakers
· flexible gas-tight cable plug-in end Unit
· HMB-1 hydraulic spring drive
· option for single pole operation
· optional advanced digital control (REF542 plus) for control,
· measurement, interlocking and protection
· feeder spacing of only 1.0 m
· weighs less than 2,500kg.

The EXK-0 switchgear is rated at 145kV, 2500A and 40kA and has been submitted for UK utility assessment for use in 132kV substations.

· space saving, extremely compact design
· small factory-tested units for ease of Transportation
· flexible modules for innovative substation Configurations
· short delivery and commissioning period
· maintenance-free equipment
· suitable for any 132kV substation