Schneider Electric, a specialist in energy management, has announced the release of its FBX gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), a fully sulphur hexafluoride gas (SF6) insulated switchboard for secondary distribution networks, in the southern African region.
According to Amith Ganasram, product manager at Schneider Electric South Africa, the switchboard offers protection through a fuse combination or a vacuum circuit-breaker. “Important for businesses conscious of their sustainability footprint, is that the FBX is kind to the environment and is fully recyclable.”
He explains that the FBX GIS, in its compact version, FBX-C, acts as a Ring Main Unit and includes up to five different functions into a single tank, which can easily be integrated into a substation or wind tower mast.
“In its extensible version, FBX-E, it becomes a fully modular switchboard that is suitable for industrial applications. It is innovative and safe. It is also noteworthy that it is not sensitive to the environment, virtually maintenance free, and very easy to install and operate,” he says.
The switchboard’s internal arc containment is up to 25 kA 1s, which is significant as arcing causes the decomposition of very small amounts of SF6 gas. In addition, it offers rated voltage of 12/ 17.5 /24 kV, busbar rated current of 630/ 1250 A and feeder rated current of 630 A.
It is also very compact with small dimensions 1,000 x 1,380 x 750, and can be remotely controlled and monitored through an RCX-ITI remote terminal.
“Schneider Electric’s FBX GIS is compliant with the stringent requirements of IEC 62271-200; subsequently, the switchboard is a profitable investment for our future,” concludes Ganasram.
