APTP Articles

12kV Ring Main Unit for the Safest Switching

POWINS has expanded its fixed pattern switchgear range from the POWINS MSS12 PRIMARY Switchgear to now include the market leading POWINS MSS12 SECONDARY Switchgear.

Until now, the visual representation on RMU’s regarding the status for a three (3) positioned switch (CLOSED – ISOLATED – EARTHED) for an operator was limited to a “front of panel MIMIC” and accepted by industry as common practice. This was due to there being no other technology available prior the POWINS MSS Ring Main Unit which now enables viewing of internal 12kV circuit switch contacts. The traditional MIMIC indication is still present and operational however is recognised as not providing a failsafe method of switch contact status  due to its absolute reliance on intricate linkages that move MIMIC indication flags or rotate MIMIC knobs dressed with stickers or lines, to aid in representation.

Addressing safe operation and best practice, MIMIC utilisation only in Secondary RMU switchgear is a step back from what industry would like to see, which is visual confirmation of the actual switch and device 12kV rated internal contacts. 

The POWINS MSS Ring Main Unit was designed to incorporate a generous LV compartment allowing space for all relay types and increased operator interface control devices, which is an ever increasing requirement of the RMU secondary switchgear market.

The market leading GELPAG “SAFETY IN OPERATION” viewing design advancement allows operators to look inside the GELPAG solid dielectric epoxy encapsulated switch block to positively view the switching 12kV rated contacts. The operator now observes 12kV contacts moving into their closed, isolated or earthed positions in both the POWINS MSS12 Primary and POWINS MSS12 Secondary (RMU) switchgear. No longer just relying on a MIMIC…

The new GELPAG MSS fixed pattern RMU secondary switchgear delivers what has been previously un-achievable within the traditional indoor fixed pattern RMU switchgear offerings. The successful result of extensive in-house research and development by GELPAG and POWINS.

The POWINS MSS12 Ring Main Unit Secondary Switchgear incorporates a unique viewing window that allows placement of a single pole CCTV camera to allow the switching operator to view the 12kV circuits internal electrical switching contacts. The GELPAG technology advancement first released in the POWINS MSS12 Primary Switchgear allows positive identification by the operator of a safe and successful switching procedure in a Secondary or Ring Main Unit switchgear product.

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