The Next Phase in the Evolution of Safety by Design - Digital Switchgear

Abstract

Switchgear performance failures are rare but the results can be catastrophic. Digital switchgear enables a safer work environment through design enhancements which also reduce costs for the engineering, manufacturing, commissioning and operation of the system. The digital switchgear solution is increasingly being considered in electrical distribution and is available through multiple vendors’ portfolios. It is based on technologies such as current and voltage sensors with low-energy analog outputs, finger-safe digital test switches and IEC 61850 incorporated into modern numerical Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs). Due to the increased simplicity and reliability and by reducing the interaction with the equipment by service technicians, operational safety is dramatically increased. In this paper, we contrast the characteristics of digital and conventional switchgear in terms of flexibility, simplicity, ease of use, efficiency and safety. The practical experiences gained from initial projects in the field are presented.