Air Insulated Switchgear

Air insulated switchgear (commonly known as AIS) is a type of switchgear used to protect and control electrical power systems.

1. Low Cost

Air insulated switchgear is low-cost. The main components are metal conductive parts and insulating materials, which make AIS relatively inexpensive and easy to replace compared to other types of switchgear.

2. Simple process

Simple design of air-insulated switchgear. Air insulated switchgear is very simple in design and does not require complex mechanisms or components. It is easy to install, maintain and repair. And faults can be easily detected and eliminated, reducing downtime.

3. Reliable

Air insulated switchgear can operate effectively in harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow and extreme temperatures. It is the best choice for outdoor installation and is so durable that it can be used for many years without any major failure.

4. Safety and environmental friendliness

Air insulated switchgear offers high safety. It is designed to prevent electric shocks and arc-flash accidents. It is also designed to prevent electrical faults from causing fires. Therefore, the AIS is a safer alternative to other types of switchgear.

5. Flexibility

Air insulated switchgear can be customised to meet specific requirements. Shouke has specialised technicians who can design it in a variety of configurations to suit the user's needs. And air-insulated switchgear is easy to modify and upgrade, making it a versatile choice.

Shouke® manufacturers perform quality tests on air insulated switchgear before it leaves the factory to ensure its functionality, reliability and safety.

Below are the steps on how to perform quality inspection of air insulated switchgear before it leaves the factory.

Step 1: Visual Inspection

The first and most important step in performing quality testing is to visually inspect the air insulated switchgear. The visual inspection includes looking for any deformities, scratches and any physical damage to the air-insulated switchgear, including connections and circuit components. Any damaged components must be repaired or replaced prior to testing.

Step 2: Mechanical Operation Test

The next step is to perform a mechanical operation test on the air insulated switchgear to verify its mechanical function. During the test, the operating mechanism of the switch must be checked and its correct operation verified. The purpose of the mechanical operation test is to ensure that the mechanical properties (e.g. movement) of the switch meet the customer's requirements.

Step 3: Electrical testing

The electrical testing process is designed to ensure that air insulated switchgear is ready for power distribution. This test is used to verify and evaluate the quality of the insulation materials, the electrical contacts of the circuit breaker, the earthing of the metal parts and the dielectric test. These electrical tests are performed in accordance with established standards and regulations to ensure proper operation of the AI.

Step 4: Short Circuit Test

The short-circuit test is an important test that must be performed when evaluating air insulated switchgear for low voltage levels and peak currents. During the test, visible connections are checked and any potential loose connections or poor contacts are repaired. Test the maximum current that the equipment can carry through the system and verify that it can withstand the load requirements.

Step 5: Functional Testing

After the previous tests have been carried out, a functional test will be initiated to check that the air insulated switchgear is performing correctly and to ensure correct mechanical and electrical functionality. The switchgear is inspected to verify different safety features such as circuit breaker monitoring, trip relays, alarms and indicators to indicate to the operator whether to run or stop the system.

These five steps ensure that air insulated switchgear components are of the highest quality and reliability before they reach the market. Operating the above steps reduces the chances of equipment failure, extends the life of the equipment and promotes safer operation.