MV Switchgear, a division of ACTOM (Pty) Ltd and provider of innovative electrical solutions, has announced the launch of its SBV4XE switchgear, which incorporates a wide range of modern features for the delivery of superior performance, functionality, and cost savings.
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Since the early 1990s, the SBV4 and later the SBV4E withdrawable pattern switchgear ranges have been widely acclaimed in Southern Africa for their low profile, compactness, robustness, and adaptability, making them ideal for applications with limited space constraints. Building on these features, MV Switchgear embarked on developing the SBV4XE to further enhance the switchgear's capabilities.
Rhett Kelly, MV Switchgear's Design and Development manager, says: “In developing the SBV4XE, we sought to retain the outstanding features of our previous models while introducing a host of significant improvements. Drawing on our extensive experience, spanning 50 years, in switchgear manufacturing we have reimagined the SBV4E product, incorporating advanced technologies and cost-effective solutions.” These include:
- Enhanced mechanisms: The spring and cam follower mechanisms have been redesigned to use alternative materials, reducing costs without compromising reliability.
- Efficient operations: The opening and closing releases require less energy, resulting in improved energy efficiency compared to previous SBV models.
- Reduced maintenance: With a lower parts count, the circuit breaker operating mechanism requires less maintenance, leading to reduced overall ownership costs.
- Cost-competitive assembly: The vacuum interrupter pole assembly is more cost-competitive, ensuring affordability without sacrificing quality.
- Emission reduction: Arc cooling pressure relief devices have been integrated into the housing assembly, mitigating emissions during internal arc faults.
- Optimised manufacturing: The housing assembly is now bolted and riveted, instead of welded, streamlining production and offering inherent corrosion resistance.
- Lightweight and durable: Most components are manufactured using aluminium and zinc-coated steel sheeting, providing corrosion resistance, and enhanced galvanic bonding properties.
- Improved circuit breaker carriage: The redesigned carriage features a swivel-wheel chassis, allowing for 360-degree rotation and effortless manoeuvrability outside the housing assembly.
- Enhanced gears: The circuit breaker mechanism gears combine polymeric and steel materials, resulting in an 80% reduction in steel usage compared to traditional gears.
- User-friendly design: The circuit breaker carriage latching, interlocking, and racking mechanism has been redesigned to enhance ease of operation, simplicity, and functionality.
- Advanced current transformers: The ring bar and base current transformers (CTs) use epoxy resin insulation with an earth-screened bar primary and toroidal core or ring-type CTs.
Donovan Stevens, ACTOM Switchgear Division CEO, says: “The SBV4XE represents a significant leap forward in switchgear technology. Its innovative features and cost-saving enhancements offer our customers unparalleled value, reliability, and ease of use. We are excited to introduce this groundbreaking solution to the market.”
Mervyn Naidoo, Group CEO of ACTOM, adds: “At ACTOM, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge electrical solutions that address the evolving needs of our customers.
The SBV4XE is testament to our dedication to innovation and excellence, and we are confident it will set new benchmarks in the industry.”
