Switchgears

Switchgear are a type of electrical distribution devices used for converting incoming electrical power into several smaller circuits. They are also used for providing overload protection in the form of fuses or circuit breakers. The term is also used for both de-energizing equipment to allow work to be done and for clearing faults downstream. Switchgear vary in different parameters including number of panels, mounting style, and electrical specifications.


Switchgear Types
Switchgear can be of different types including:

• A simple open air circuit breaker
• Gas insulated switchgear (GIS)
• Oil insulated switchgear
• Vacuum circuit breakers

Switchgear Locations
These electrical distribution devices can be anywhere that isolation and protection may be required. These include generators, transformers, substations, motors, and high or medium voltage distribution networks. Different types of switchgear are often used by the power utility as protection against line to ground, phase to phase, or line to neutral faults. They are also used for heavy industry purposes.

Fuse and Circuit Breakers
A fuse contains a metallic element, which melts if the current exceeds a specific amperage. Circuit breaker is a mechanical switching device, which breaks currents under specific, abnormal circuit conditions.

Switchgears Applications
Switchgears are used in diverse applications and industries. Some of them are: For example, some devices are used to

• Power lighting systems
• UPS
• Inverter applications

Other Types

• Circuit Breakers
• Electrical Fuse
• Electrical Relays
• Electrical Switches