Modular Switchgear Casing Segmentation for Leak Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and high manufacturing costs of multi-phase high voltage circuit breaking or isolating devices with dielectric fluid insulation, due to the need for multiple sealed mechanisms and complex internal maneuvering systems, complicate maintenance and increase the risk of leaks.
Innovation Solution
A modular design using base tank elements with flanges for connection, allowing for a single sealed mechanism to control multiple conductors and simplifying assembly and maintenance, while maintaining fluid communication and internal mechanical connections between chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a one-piece tank design is used to allow internal maneuvering mechanisms and single sealed mechanism control, then the number of sealed mechanisms is reduced and maintenance is simplified, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase due to complex mold requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into multiple separable tank elements that can be manufactured independently using simpler molds, then assembled together. Each element can be produced with standard manufacturing processes while the overall system achieves the reliability benefits of integrated design through careful sealing interfaces between elements.
2Reliability
If multiple independent tank elements are used to correspond to each phase, then the device can physically separate high-voltage circuits, but the complexity of sealed mechanisms increases and maintenance operations are multiplied
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tank elements are connected through common fluidic passages and shared sealed mechanisms, allowing a single control system to operate multiple phases simultaneously. The elements remain physically separate for electrical isolation but are merged through fluid communication and shared control interfaces, reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a one-piece tank with complex shape is manufactured, then internal maneuvering mechanisms can be installed, but the mold complexity and assembly costs significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex internal maneuvering mechanisms are distributed across multiple separable tank elements, each with simpler geometry suitable for standard manufacturing. The mechanisms remain integrated in function through mechanical linkages that span multiple elements, achieving operational complexity without manufacturing complexity.
4Ease of operation
If multiple sealed mechanisms are provided for each phase, then external control can maneuver moving conductors, but the risk of leaks increases and manufacturing becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sealed mechanisms are consolidated into a single shared sealed mechanism that controls all tank elements simultaneously. This unified approach reduces the total number of sealing interfaces, thereby reducing leak risks while maintaining the ability to control each phase independently through internal mechanical linkages.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a basic enclosure element (10) for forming an enclosure of a switchgear (1) for interrupting or isolating a high-voltage circuit. The basic enclosure element (10) comprises a body (110) defining a chamber for containing a mobile conductor (20a, 20b, 20c). The body (110) comprises at least one first face (120) comprising a first connection means, and at least one second, open face (130). Said second face (130) comprises a second connection means complementary to the first connection means in such a way as to allow the connection of the basic enclosure element (10) to a second enclosure element (10c) in a fluidically communicating manner. The invention also relates to a switchgear enclosure and to a method for mounting such an enclosure.