Zurich, Switzerland, Oct. 29, 2013 - ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, today announced the launch of its new generation 145kV (kilovolt) Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS).The latest GIS has a simplified modular design, making it faster and easier to install. It also has lower life cycle costs and features that reduce environmental impact.
The new eco-efficient performance GIS design enables reduction of SF6 insulating gas by as much as 60 percent and the weight by 13 percent compared to its predecessor. Other key features include convenient frontal access that enables easier operation and improved serviceability. The small, horizontal three-phase enclosure with single-phase insulators further facilitates overall accessibility.
The system has been designed for a rated voltage of 145 kV, and can handle a rated current of up to 3150 A (Amperes), It is capable of providing protection to power networks with rated short-circuit currents up to 40 kA (kilo amperes).
The new product has been designed and developed with close collaboration between the global GIS technology experts and the China GIS competence center. It is in line with ABB's 'in country for country' approach and the products manufactured here will serve local market needs in China as well as other markets around the world.
"The new generation 145 kV GIS is designed for easier installation, operation and service while ensuring reliability" said Giandomenico Rivetti, head of ABB's High Voltage business within the company's Power Products division. "This eco-efficient GIS brings significant savings in space, weight and SF6 insulating gas making it environmentally friendly and ideal for applications where space is limited."
In a power system, switchgear is used to control, protect and isolate electrical equipment thereby enhancing the reliability of electrical supply. With GIS technology, key components including contacts and conductors are protected with insulating gas. Compactness, reliability and robustness make this a preferred solution where space is a constraint (e.g. busy cities) or in harsh environmental conditions.
ABB pioneered high-voltage GIS in the mid-1960s and continues to drive technology and innovation, offering a full range product portfolio with voltage levels from 72.5kV to 1,200kV. As a market leader in high-voltage GIS technology, ABB has a global installed base of more than 21,000 bays.
ABB (http://www.abb.com.cn/) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 150,000 people. ABB has a full range of business activities in China, including R&D, manufacturing, sales and services, with nearly 19,000 employees, 36 local companies, and an extensive sales and service network across 90 cities.
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