ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS SWITCHGEAR PROTECTION
SPELSBERG
Robust and flexible approach for LV switchgear enclosure
Enclosures play a vital role in protecting switchgear from damage , as well as ensuring the safety of people nearby . Combining these aspects with a flexible , modular system that can be customised appropriately creates an enclosure layout that ’ s a best fit for switchgear protection needs .
Chris Lloyd , Managing Director of Spelsberg UK , discusses the key considerations for specifying an enclosure for low voltage switchgear .
When housing low voltage switchgear the fundamental requirement is protection of the electrical system to keep it running , whatever the environmental conditions it faces . Whether for outdoor use or harsh indoor industrial settings , an IP rating sufficiently high to prevent ingress , combined with IK protection against impacts , are prerequisite enclosure requirements . So too , protecting operatives or the public from harm , which will typically be achieved with IEC Protection Class II .
Once these imperatives are met , creating an enclosure that fits switchgear protection requirements amongst situational design constraints is the next challenge . While some facilities prefer steel enclosures , the difficulty in creating a flexible , modular system in steel often results in an enclosure that is larger than required . Polycarbonate is a preferable alternative , providing high durability and design flexibility , allowing a modular approach where smaller enclosures fit together to protect a more precise area . Lighter than steel , polycarbonate also enables easier installation , especially for installing at height or in more complex settings .
While the external structure of the housing has to protect against ingress and impact , a common requirement of LV switchgear design is to segregate the architecture within the enclosure and provide isolated protection . To fit this need , the enclosure has to be modular with interconnected housings that can be easily designed and quickly assembled together , often without making additional modifications on-site .
The modular approach taken by Spelsberg ’ s GTi enclosure features removable flange panels that can be rapidly locked into place to isolate areas of the switchgear network . Alternatively , they can be easily removed to allow connectivity of wiring and components . The enclosures and panels are flush-fit , leaving no penetrative gaps and affording maximum protection . Modularity and simple connectivity of enclosure walls also enable fast , easy expansion of the switchgear circuit if required at a later date . Spelsberg ’ s service helps engineers create
56 PECM Issue 51