Switchgear

Switchgear is electrical equipment in an AC voltage network that is required for distributing electricity and combining loads. These systems are used, for example, in electrical network stations of industrial and supply systems, power supply systems of buildings and local transportation systems. Switchgear is also used in all other areas of electrical engineering that require an individual power supply solution. The main tasks of switchgear are to protect against overloads and short circuits and to distribute and control electrical voltage. Almost all feeders in a switchgear are connected to the busbar of the mains node via the devices used. Switchgear can also insulate circuits, control industrial motors or carry out power supply measurements. Switchgear construction is therefore a diverse area which, with the necessary know-how and experience, is an important part of electrical engineering. Transformers are often located in close proximity to switchgear.

Switchgear is often required when the live parts need to be encapsulated (switch cabinet), when operation without risk of electric shock is required and when disconnection from the mains is necessary for maintenance work.

A distinction is made between low-voltage, medium-voltage and high-voltage switchgear according to the voltage level present.