Ringmaster airset is a next-generation SF6-free switchgear
Industrial technology company Schneider electric has released its next-generation SF6-free (sulphur hexafluoride) digital medium voltage (MV) switchgear for more sustainable electricity grids.
Decarbonisation and moderisation of grid infrastructure can be aided with the use of the ringmaster airset, enabling electric distribution utilities to improve operational performance and reliability.
David Hall, schneider electric’s vice president of Power Systems UK&I said: “New technology such as our Ringmaster AirSeT gives us a real opportunity to decarbonise the electricity distribution network in the UK. Manufacturers have a key role to play, supporting the National Grid in its efforts to reduce SF6 emissions.”
A pure air design, replacing SF6 – a greenhouse gas traditionally used as insulation for electrical equipment, with pure air is employed in the ringmaster airset. This removes the need for costly gas recycling at the end of product life, as pure air has no impact on global warming or pollution. This brings down total cost of ownership.
He added: “With growing energy demands, the influx of distributed energy resources such as renewables, electric vehicles and battery storage, the launch of Ringmaster AirSeT means we have the technology here today for the grid of the future.”
SF6 is 24,300 times stronger than CO2 as a greenhouse gas which is eliminated in the new switchgear using both pure air and shunt vacuum interruption (SVI), reducing environmental footprint.
Key features of the new ringmaster airset includes; being powered by pure air, pure air insulation and vacuum for circuit breaking, three position ring to switch circuit in the shunt vacuum interrupter, next-generation compodrive mechanism for increased mechanical performance.
A three position switch for closed, opened, and earthed has been kept making the switchgear the first SF6-free to do so, meaning no change in operation for the end user and allows for simple integration. SCAD connection is possible using the T300 remote terminal unit or can be connected and monitored using wireless sensor technology.
Schneider electric has invested £7.2million into its Leeds facility to produce the ringmaster airset to meet demand of the new product.
