APTP Articles

Smart Grid Reliability Solutions

TE Connectivity (TE), a world leader in connectivity and sensors, has acquired Kries, a German pioneer in smart grid systems. With this strategic acquisition, TE’s energy business unit fortifies its position as a leading provider of grid reliability solutions to utilities and owners of power networks and renewable power infrastructure worldwide.

TE Connectivity, a world leader in connectivity and sensors, has launched its Raychem smart RSTI-VS separable connector with voltage sensor, which can be used for grid monitoring, and advanced earth fault and short circuit detection in IEC markets. 

Together with grid monitoring devices such as Kries’ CAPDIS, distribution network operators can deploy condition monitoring, advanced fault detection and failure prediction in their networks. This simple and economical solution turns existing and new distribution networks into smart networks.

Increase network visibility

TE’s smart RSTI-VS is the new generation of Raychem screened separable connectors with voltage measurement functionality. Equipped with a low power voltage sensor, the smart RSTI is designed to increase network visibility and support the implementation of smart grids in distribution networks by providing a precise measurement of voltage (0.5% accuracy class of voltage measure). Due to its compact size and optimised design, the smart RSTI saves space and reduces the overall size and weight of switchgears compared to conventional technologies (current and potential transformer/ CT & PT). Existing installations can be easily retrofit with the RSTI-VS, and standard RSTI products can be retrofit with the voltage sensor.

TE Raychem’s SMART RSTI with IKI-50 grid inspector

The voltage sensor is compatible with many monitoring devices across the industry, and is now also fully tested for compatibility with most of Kries devices including CAPDIS, or IKI-50 grid inspector, a highly flexible field control device for distribution networks. It is designed for fault detection, monitoring and switching operations, increases transparency, and is the basic component of intelligent ring main units.

By combining TE’s Raychem smart RSTI-VS with Kries devices, distribution network operators benefit from precise measurement of voltage across applications and the entire operating range of both the voltage sensor and the installed Kries device. 

TE Connectivity