Description
A Medium Voltage (MV) Metal-Clad panel is a type of medium-voltage switchgear with a fully metal enclosure and metal-partitioned compartments inside.
Key Characteristics and Components
- Metal-Partitioned Compartments: Each section (circuit breaker/VCB, busbar, incoming/outgoing cables, and control/metering) is separated by grounded metal plates to ensure operator safety.
- Voltage and Current Ratings: Typically operates at medium-voltage levels (12 kV, 20 kV/24 kV, up to 40.5 kV) with high rated currents (usually 630 A to 4000 A).
- Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): Uses a vacuum circuit breaker as the main interrupting device. It is withdrawable, which makes maintenance easier.
- Degree of Protection: The enclosure typically meets a protection rating of up to IP4X, protecting internal components from dust and physical contact.
Main Functions
- Protection and Safety: Protects the electrical distribution system from short circuits and overloads.
- Load Switching: Allows operators to switch medium-voltage power on or off (such as a 20 kV supply from PLN) to a transformer or sub-panel.
- Personnel Safety: The metal-clad design ensures that if an arc flash occurs inside one compartment, the explosion or sparks will not spread to other compartments or injure operators in front of the panel.
