Title of Invention	SWITCHGEAR SYSTEM, ESPECIALLY MEDIUM-VOLTAE SWITCHGEAR SYSTEM
Abstract	The invention relates to a switchgear system (1), especially a medium voltage switchgear system comprising a pluralit of switchgears, cable connections (32) and/or bus bars which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet (2), the one or more switchgears being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container (10), which is filled with an insulating gas, on top of a plurality of fuse cartridges(20) having fuse elements (16). The container (10) is provided with at least one pressure relief device (24) having a predetermined direction of relief (R), the fuse cartridges (20) being associated with at least one bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) on at least one side facing the direction of relief (R).

Title of Invention

SWITCHGEAR SYSTEM, ESPECIALLY MEDIUM-VOLTAE SWITCHGEAR SYSTEM

Abstract

The invention relates to a switchgear system (1), especially a medium voltage switchgear system comprising a pluralit of switchgears, cable connections (32) and/or bus bars which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet (2), the one or more switchgears being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container (10), which is filled with an insulating gas, on top of a plurality of fuse cartridges(20) having fuse elements (16). The container (10) is provided with at least one pressure relief device (24) having a predetermined direction of relief (R), the fuse cartridges (20) being associated with at least one bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) on at least one side facing the direction of relief (R).

Full Text	Description Switchgear system, especially medium-voltage switchgear system The invention relates to a switchgear system, especially a medium-voltage switchgear system, comprising a plurality of switching devices, cable connections and/or busbars which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet, the one or more switching devices being arranged in a metal-encapsulated gas-insulated container above a plurality of fuse cassettes containing fuse elements in the switchgear cabinet. In energy distribution, especially at the medium-voltage level, compact gas or air-insulated switchgear systems are used to fulfill switching and protection tasks in electrical distribution networks. Particularly in the secondary distribution sector with relatively low rated currents up to max. 1250 A and short-circuit currents up to a maximum of 2 5 kA, switchgear systems are designed in a so-called block or modular form. That is to say that several switching devices with different switching functions, such as load switches, circuit breakers and transformer branch circuits for example, are arranged in a single container which is normally filled with an insulating gas, e.g. sulfur hexafluoride gas. Here, several switching devices of several containers are connected, for example by means of a busbar which is fed out of the container, to form a larger switchgear system consisting of several switch panels with different switching functions. Switch panels with a single switching function are also connected to one another, for example by means of a busbar which is fed out of the panel. These switchgear systems are divided into expandable and non-expandable system types. Along with the container (also referred to as gas container), these switchgear systems consist of the described busbar, a cable connection area and, when high-voltage/high-power fuses are used, a fuse compartment with fuse cassettes in which fuse elements are arranged. Normally, the described components and sections are arranged with respect to one another in a special way so that these switchgear systems are particularly economical to manufacture and operate. In this regard, it is known to place the fuse compartment of the described switchgear system in the cable connection compartment of the transformer branch-circuit panel and to bolt the cable connection directly to the cast-resin fuse receptacle. Furthermore, a particular design characteristic of a switchgear system type of the above kind is a designated rupturing point which is integrated into the outer skin of the gas-insulated container. This designated rupturing point serves to relieve a high over-pressure which can occur within the container in the event of an arcing fault inside the container. An arcing fault is associated with severe heating of the gas to several 1000°C and therefore a considerable increase in pressure to several bar within a few tens of milliseconds. The designated rupturing point is usually designed in the form of a rupture diaphragm or burst disk, the burst pressure of which is set to greater than a maximum gas pressure in the container which occurs in normal operation but less than a burst pressure of the overall container. The pressure relief for the whole switchgear system is determined by the arrangement of the burst disk in a predetermined direction. As a rule, pressure in the switchgear system is relieved in the direction of the ground. That is to say, the escaping hot gases are directed downwards. With a switchgear system having a fuse compartment below the container in the cable connection compartment, particularly in the case of expandable switch panels, the problem occurs that in the event of an arcing fault inside the container, the hot gases escape into the fuse compartment so that when a fuse compartment access cover is removed the hot gases escape forwards and, in particularly unfavorable cases, operating personnel can be injured. The object of the invention is to specify a switchgear system, especially a medium-voltage switchgear system, which is constructed in such a way that safe access to the fuse compartment is made possible in the event of a fault. According to the invention, the object is achieved by the characteristics stated in claim 1. Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims. According to the invention, a switchgear system, especially a medium-voltage switchgear system, comprises a plurality of switching devices, cable connections and/or busbars which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet, the one or more switching devices being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container which is filled with insulating gas above a plurality of fuse cassettes containing fuse elements in the switchgear cabinet, the container being provided with at least one pressure relief device having a predetermined direction of relief, and at least one bulkhead element being associated with the fuse cassettes on at least one side facing the direction of relief. The bulkhead element arranged in the area of the fuse cassette in the direction of relief of the pressure relief device prevents an escape of hot gases forwards into a fuse compartment by specifically diverting the gases into a discharge channel. This ensures that, in particular even when the switchgear system is expanded, substantially no gases escape forwards towards an operator when the switchgear cabinet is opened in the event of a fault, in particular the fuse compartment containing the fuse cassettes. This provides a high level of operating safety. The use of simple bulkhead elements results in a compact and simple as well as cost-effective construction. A possible embodiment of the invention provides that, with an arrangement of the pressure relief device in the area of the rear wall of the container, a rear bulkhead element is associated with those ends, in particular the rear ends, of the fuse cassettes which lie in the direction of the area of the rear wall of the container, and is arranged to conceal or cover these at least partially or completely. At the same time, in particular, a bulkhead plate at the rear of the fuse cassettes is drawn in to provide partial or complete covering so that escaping gases are deflected downwards past the fuse cassettes. This reliably prevents gases entering the fuse compartment so that no gases escape forwards towards an operator when a fuse element is changed or replaced. In a further alternative embodiment, when the pressure relief device is arranged at least in a side wall area of the container, a lateral bulkhead element is associated with that side of the fuse cassettes which faces the direction of relief and is arranged to provide at least partial or complete covering. The bulkhead element which is arranged on the side of the fuse cassette(s) enables the escaping gases to be diverted sideways and downwards and therefore prevents the escaping gases entering the fuse compartment. In an alternative arrangement of the pressure relief device at least in a floor area of the container, a front bulkhead element is preferably associated with a front wall area of the container and/or cabinet front area and the fuse cassettes and is arranged to provide at least partial or complete covering of this front wall area and/or cabinet front area. In doing so, a front bulkhead element of this kind provides a pressure-tight seal for the fuse cassettes against the outside of the switchgear system, thus reliably preventing the gases from escaping forwards. In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, when the pressure relief device is arranged in the front wall area of the container, the or a further front bulkhead element is associated with those ends (front ends) of the fuse cassettes which lie in the direction of the front wall area of the container and is arranged to provide at least partial covering for these and the front wall area of the container. In doing so, the bulkhead element(s) is/are arranged in the front area, in particular the cabinet front area of the switchgear system, to provide partial or complete covering for the front wall area of the container and/or the fuse cassettes. Front bulkhead elements of this kind therefore provide a pressure-tight seal for the fuse cassettes against the outside of the switchgear system, thus reliably preventing the gases from escaping forwards. In an advantageous embodiment, the specific bulkhead element is designed in particular to be pressure-tight in such a way that it forms a discharge in the direction of relief. The respective bulkhead element is suitably shaped for this purpose. For example, the bulkhead element is designed in the form of a bulkhead sheet, a bulkhead plate and/or a bulkhead section. Also, a plurality of bulkhead elements can be provided which are arranged in such a way that they form a channel through which escaping gases are reliably diverted downwards. In addition, the channel can be provided with at least one associated control element, in particular a valve flap. In doing so, the channel is closed by means of the control element in such a way that a penetration of such gases as are produced, for example, by an arc in an adjacent part of the system, is prevented. This ensures that gases escaping from adjacent parts of the system do not enter the area of the fuse cassettes and therefore the fuse compartment, and do not permanently damage these, in particular the fuse elements. A simple embodiment provides that the bulkhead element is made of metal, in particular sheet steel. Alternatively, the bulkhead element can be made of plastic, in particular Duroplast or Thermoplast, or another suitable, in particular fiber-reinforced, plastic. In addition, the bulkhead element can be designed in the form of a multi-part element which, for example, at least partially or completely encloses the fuse cassettes and/or which forms a channel for discharging gases escaping from the container. Further, the fuse cassettes can be provided with at least one receiving element, in particular a slot, in which the bulkhead element is arranged. This enables a simple or freely accessible assembly or disassembly of the bulkhead element. In addition, at least one guide element can be arranged in the area of the direction of relief, in particular before the pressure relief device. In doing so, the guide element is designed in such a way that it forms a discharge and/or diversion in the direction of relief for escaping gases. This ensures that escaping gases are diverted downwards and/or backwards and downwards so that no gases can escape forwards when operating the switchgear system. Expediently, the guide element is designed as a section. For example, the guide element can be designed in the form of a U- section, an L-section or a hollow channel section. A plurality of guide elements can also be provided which are arranged in such a way that they form a guide channel. To close or open the guide channel in the event of a fault in an adjacent part of the system or in the event of a fault in the associated part of the system, in particular the associated switching device, the guide channel is provided with at least one associated control element, in particular an adjustable valve flap. A simple embodiment provides that the guide element is made of metal, in particular sheet steel. Alternatively, the guide element can be made of plastic, in particular Duroplast or Thermoplast, or another suitable, in particular fiber- reinforced, plastic. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail with reference to drawings. In the drawings: FIG 1 shows schematically in front view a modular switchgear system with a switchgear cabinet comprising a switch panel for at least one switching device, a fuse compartment arranged thereunder and a cable connection compartment according to the prior art, FIG 2 shows schematically in front view a switchgear cabinet with open flap for the fuse compartment and two front bulkhead elements according to the invention, FIG 3 shows schematically in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet with a rear bulkhead element according to the invention in the fuse compartment, FIG 4 shows schematically in front view a switchgear cabinet with open flap for the fuse compartment and a lateral bulkhead element according to the invention, FIG 5 shows schematically in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet with a front bulkhead element according to the invention in the fuse compartment, FIG 6 shows schematically in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet with a front bulkhead element according to the invention and a guide channel in the fuse compartment, FIG 7 shows schematically an enlarged area of the switchgear cabinet in front view with two front bulkhead elements arranged in the fuse compartment in a dismantled state, FIG 8 shows schematically the area according to Figure 7 in longitudinal section, and FIG 9 shows schematically the area according to Figure 7 in longitudinal section with bulkhead elements mounted on the fuse cassettes. Corresponding parts are given the same references in all the figures. Figure 1 shows in front view a modular switchgear system 1 with a switchgear cabinet 2 comprising a switch panel 4 for at least one switching device, a fuse compartment 6 arranged thereunder and a cable connection compartment 8 according to the prior art. The switchgear system 1 is, in particular, a metal- encapsulated, gas-insulated medium-voltage switchgear system, wherein a system-oriented number of switching devices which are not shown in more detail such as load isolating switches for example, are arranged in the switch panel 4 in a metal- encapsulated, gas-insulated container 10. The fuse compartment 6 is accessible by means of a releasable fuse cover 12, so that the fuse compartment 6 and if necessary the adjacent area can be accessed in the event of a fault by- opening the fuse cover 12. The cable connection compartment 8 is fitted with a cable connection faceplate 14. Figure 2 shows schematically in front view a switchgear cabinet 2 with open fuse cover 12 for the fuse compartment 6. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 2, the switchgear system 1 comprises three fuse elements 16 which, in the event of a disturbance or fault, e.g. in the event of a short circuit or overload, switch at least one or more of the switching devices by means of a fuse tripping mechanism 18 so that a load connected to a network by the switching device is isolated. At the same time, the switchgear system 1 can have one or more fuse elements 16 per switching device. The fuse elements 16 are in each case arranged in an associated fuse cassette 20 (also referred to as fuse chamber). In" order t the case of an arcing fault in the container 10, by specifically directed escape of gases and to specifically route or deflect the escaping gases, a plurality of bulkhead elements 22.1 to 22.n associated with the fuse cassettes 20 is arranged in the switchgear cabinet 2 on at least one side facing the direction of relief of the gas. In the exemplary embodiment according to Figure 2, two front bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 are provided which are arranged as separate flat bulkhead plates or bulkhead walls above and below the fuse compartment 6 to cover it at the front so that, in the event of gas escaping downwards from the container 10, a gas escape forwards is prevented by the front bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 by the gas being able to be diverted downwards. At the same time, the front bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 can be provided in the switchgear cabinet 2 irrespective of the position of a pressure relief device 24 arranged on the container 10, the different positions of which are described in more detail in the following figures. Figure 3 shows a further exemplary embodiment for the invention in which a pressure relief device 24 is arranged in the rear wall area 26, in particular in a rear floor area 28 of the container 10. The pressure relief device 24 is a conventional device, e.g. a so-called rupture diaphragm or a burst disk with a defined designated rupturing point which is set, for example, greater than a maximum gas pressure which occurs in the container 10 in normal operation and less than a burst pressure for the container 10. At the same time, the pressure relief device 24 is designed in such a way that it has a predetermined direction of relief R in which the escaping gas escapes when the pressure relief device 24 bursts. A rear bulkhead element 22.3 in the fuse compartment 6 is associated with the fuse cassettes 20 for specifically diverting gas which escapes in the event of a fault. At the same time, the bulkhead element 22.3 has a section shape which corresponds with the rear outside shape of the fuse cassette(s) 20 so that the fuse cassette(s) 20 is/are substantially completely covered by the rear bulkhead element 22.3 so that gas escaping from the container 10 cannot penetrate the fuse compartment 6 in a forwards direction. The rear bulkhead element 22.3 is in particular designed as a bent plate, in particular a bent steel sheet, or as an appropriately formed plastic plate, for example made from Thermoplast or Duroplast. The switching device (s) arranged in the container 10 can be connected via bushing assemblies 30, which emerge from the container 10, the fuse element 16 and a cable connection 32, for example, to a busbar connection in the cable connection compartment 8 which is not shown in more detail. At the same time, both the bushing assemblies 30 and the cable connection 32 are appropriately insulated in a conventional manner. Figure 4 shows schematically in front view a switchgear cabinet 1 with open fuse cover 12 for the fuse compartment 6 and with a lateral bulkhead element 22.4 for the fuse compartment 6. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief device 24 is arranged at the side of the fuse compartment 6. For example, the pressure relief device 24 is arranged in a front wall area 34 of the container 10 in the forward-facing floor area 28. In order to laterally seal off the fuse compartment 6, the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 is associated with that side of the fuse cassettes 20 which faces the direction of relief R. At the same time, the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 completely covers the side of the fuse cassettes 2 0 so that the escaping gases are diverted downwards and no gases escaping in the direction of relief R find their way into the fuse compartment 6. At the same time, the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 is designed in the form of an appropriately shaped or bent plate, in particular a steel plate or plastic plate. Expediently, the ends of the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 pointing towards the container 10 are bent in such a way that they run parallel to the floor area 2 8 of the container 10 and are fixed thereto by friction, interlocking and/or bonding. The opposite ends of the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 are fixed by interlocking, friction and/or bonding, for example, to a side wall 3 6 of the cable connection compartment 8. The lateral bulkhead element 22.4 can also be fixed in some other suitable manner to some other suitable point in the switchgear cabinet 2. Figure 5 shows in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet 2 with a further front bulkhead element 22.5 in the fuse compartment 6. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief device 24 is arranged in the floor area 28 of the container 10 at a predeterminable position. In order to prevent gases escaping when the fuse cover 12 is opened, the front bulkhead element 22.5 is arranged in the cabinet front area 38 of the switchgear cabinet 2 so that the front bulkhead element 22.5 covers both the front wall area 34 of the container 10 and the front area of the fuse compartment 6 so that escaping gases are reliably diverted downwards. At the same time, the front bulkhead element 22.5 can be divided into a plurality of elements as shown in Figures 7 to 9. The front bulkhead element 22.5 is designed in the form of a plate and is as flat as possible and pressure-tight. For example, the front bulkhead element 22.5 is a steel or plastic plate. At the same time, the front bulkhead element 22.5 can be fixed by interlocking, friction and/or bonding to the fuse cover 12 or some other suitable point. Figure 6 shows in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet 2 with a front bulkhead element 22.5 according to the invention. To reliably divert escaping gases downwards, a guide element 40 can additionally be arranged in the fuse compartment 6 in front of the front bulkhead element 22.5. In this exemplary embodiment, a pressure relief device 24 is arranged in the front wall area 34 of the container 10. In doing so, the guide element 40 is designed in the form of a channel in order to deflect and divert the escaping gases. The guide element 40 can be designed as a section, e.g. a U- section, an L-section, a hollow cylinder, a tube and/or some other suitable section for this purpose. The guide element 40 can also be made up of different sections. In order to avoid additional components, instead of the additional guide element 40, the front bulkhead element 22.5 can be designed in the form of a channel in a manner which is not shown in more detail. In particular, the bulkhead element 22.5 is a bulkhead section, e.g. a U-shaped or L-shaped bulkhead section. Furthermore, the channel K which is formed by one or more guide elements 40 or one or more bulkhead elements 22.5 is provided on the output side with at least one control element, e.g. a valve flap or non-return flap, so that a penetration of gases from adjacent switch panels (not shown in more detail) into the fuse compartment 6 is reliably prevented. Figure 7 shows schematically an enlarged area of the switchgear cabinet 2 in front view with two front bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 arranged in the fuse compartment 6 in a dismantled state. At the same time, the ends of the plate-shaped front bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 can be attached to the fuse cassettes 20 by interlocking, friction and/or bonding. The bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 each have a number of recesses 42 corresponding to the number of fuse cassettes 20 for this purpose. As shown in Figure 8, the respective fuse cassette 20 is provided with a slot 42 for this purpose into which the bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 can be inserted and fixed by interlocking. Figure 9 shows the bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 mounted on the fuse cassettes 20. At the same time, the bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 cover the cabinet front area 38 so that the gases are diverted downwards. WE CLAIM 1. A switchgear system (1), especially a medium-voltage switchgear system, comprising a plurality of switching devices, cable connections (32) and/or busbars which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet (2), the one or more switching devices being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container (10) which is filled with insulating gas above a plurality of fuse cassettes (20) containing fuse elements (16) in the switchgear cabinet (2), characterized in that the container (10) is provided with at least one pressure relief device (24) having a predetermined direction of relief (R), at least one bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) being associated with the fuse cassettes (20) on at least one side facing the direction of relief (R). 2. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that with an arrangement of the pressure relief device (24) in the area of the rear wall (26) of the container (10), a rear bulkhead element (22.3) is associated with those ends of the fuse cassettes (20) which lie in the direction of the area of the rear wall (26) of the container (10), and is arranged to cover these at least partially. 3. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that when the pressure relief device (24) is arranged at least in a side wall area of the container (10), a lateral bulkhead element (22.4) is associated with that side of the fuse cassettes (20) which faces the direction of relief (R) and is arranged to provide at least partial covering. 4. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when the pressure relief device (24) is arranged at least in a floor area (28) of the container (10), a front bulkhead element (22.5) is associated with a cabinet front area (38) of the switchgear cabinet (2) and the fuse cassettes (2 0) and is arranged to provide at least partial covering of this cabinet front area (38). 5. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when the pressure relief device (24) is arranged in the front wall area (34) of the container (10), at least one front bulkhead element (22.5) and/or one guide element (40) is associated with those ends of the fuse cassettes (20) which lie in the direction of the front wall area (34) of the container (10) and is arranged to provide at least partial covering for these and the front wall area (34) of the container (10). 6. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one front bulkhead element (22.1, 22.2) is arranged in the cabinet front area (38) of the switchgear cabinet (2). 7. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the specific bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) is designed in such a way that it forms a discharge in the direction of relief (R). 8. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the specific bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) is designed in the form of a bulkhead sheet, a bulkhead plate and/or a bulkhead section. 9. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of bulkhead elements (22.1 to 22.n) are provided which are arranged in such a way that they form a channel (K). 10. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the channel (K) is provided with at least one associated control element, in particular a valve flap or a non-return flap. 11. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) is made of metal, in particular sheet steel. 12. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) is made of plastic, in particular Duroplast or Thermoplast, or another suitable, in particular fiber- reinforced, plastic. 13. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) is designed in the form of a multi-part element which at least partially or completely encloses the fuse cassettes (20). 14. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fuse cassettes (20) are provided with at least one receiving element, in particular a slot (44), in which the bulkhead element (22.1, 22.2) can be arranged. 15. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one guide element (40) is arranged in the area of the direction of relief (R) of the gas, in particular on the output side of the pressure relief device (24). 16. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that the guide element (40) is designed in such a way that it forms a discharge and/or diversion in the direction of relief (R). 17. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the guide element (40) is designed as a section. 18. The switchgear system as claimed in one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that a plurality of guide elements (40) are provided which are arranged in such a way that they form a guide channel (K). 19. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that the guide channel (K) is provided with at least one associated control element, in particular a valve flap or a non-return flap. The invention relates to a switchgear system (1), especially a medium voltage switchgear system comprising a pluralit of switchgears, cable connections (32) and/or bus bars which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet (2), the one or more switchgears being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container (10), which is filled with an insulating gas, on top of a plurality of fuse cartridges(20) having fuse elements (16). The container (10) is provided with at least one pressure relief device (24) having a predetermined direction of relief (R), the fuse cartridges (20) being associated with at least one bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) on at least one side facing the direction of relief (R).

Full Text

Description
Switchgear system, especially medium-voltage switchgear system
The invention relates to a switchgear system, especially a
medium-voltage switchgear system, comprising a plurality of
switching devices, cable connections and/or busbars which are
arranged in a switchgear cabinet, the one or more switching
devices being arranged in a metal-encapsulated gas-insulated
container above a plurality of fuse cassettes containing fuse
elements in the switchgear cabinet.
In energy distribution, especially at the medium-voltage level,
compact gas or air-insulated switchgear systems are used to
fulfill switching and protection tasks in electrical
distribution networks. Particularly in the secondary
distribution sector with relatively low rated currents up to
max. 1250 A and short-circuit currents up to a maximum of
2 5 kA, switchgear systems are designed in a so-called block or
modular form. That is to say that several switching devices
with different switching functions, such as load switches,
circuit breakers and transformer branch circuits for example,
are arranged in a single container which is normally filled
with an insulating gas, e.g. sulfur hexafluoride gas.
Here, several switching devices of several containers are
connected, for example by means of a busbar which is fed out of
the container, to form a larger switchgear system consisting of
several switch panels with different switching functions.
Switch panels with a single switching function are also
connected to one another, for example by means of a busbar
which is fed out of the panel. These switchgear systems are
divided into expandable and non-expandable system types.
Along with the container (also referred to as gas container),
these switchgear systems consist of the described busbar, a

cable connection area and, when

high-voltage/high-power fuses are used, a fuse compartment with
fuse cassettes in which fuse elements are arranged.
Normally, the described components and sections are arranged
with respect to one another in a special way so that these
switchgear systems are particularly economical to manufacture
and operate.
In this regard, it is known to place the fuse compartment of
the described switchgear system in the cable connection
compartment of the transformer branch-circuit panel and to bolt
the cable connection directly to the cast-resin fuse
receptacle.
Furthermore, a particular design characteristic of a switchgear
system type of the above kind is a designated rupturing point
which is integrated into the outer skin of the gas-insulated
container. This designated rupturing point serves to relieve a
high over-pressure which can occur within the container in the
event of an arcing fault inside the container. An arcing fault
is associated with severe heating of the gas to several 1000°C
and therefore a considerable increase in pressure to several
bar within a few tens of milliseconds.
The designated rupturing point is usually designed in the form
of a rupture diaphragm or burst disk, the burst pressure of
which is set to greater than a maximum gas pressure in the
container which occurs in normal operation but less than a
burst pressure of the overall container. The pressure relief
for the whole switchgear system is determined by the
arrangement of the burst disk in a predetermined direction. As
a rule, pressure in the switchgear system is relieved in the
direction of the ground. That is to say, the escaping hot gases
are directed downwards.

With a switchgear system having a fuse compartment below the
container in the cable connection compartment, particularly in
the case of expandable switch panels, the problem occurs that
in the event of an arcing fault inside the container, the hot
gases

escape into the fuse compartment so that when a fuse
compartment access cover is removed the hot gases escape
forwards and, in particularly unfavorable cases, operating
personnel can be injured.
The object of the invention is to specify a switchgear system,
especially a medium-voltage switchgear system, which is
constructed in such a way that safe access to the fuse
compartment is made possible in the event of a fault.
According to the invention, the object is achieved by the
characteristics stated in claim 1.
Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject
matter of the dependent claims.
According to the invention, a switchgear system, especially a
medium-voltage switchgear system, comprises a plurality of
switching devices, cable connections and/or busbars which are
arranged in a switchgear cabinet, the one or more switching
devices being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container which
is filled with insulating gas above a plurality of fuse
cassettes containing fuse elements in the switchgear cabinet,
the container being provided with at least one pressure relief
device having a predetermined direction of relief, and at least
one bulkhead element being associated with the fuse cassettes
on at least one side facing the direction of relief.
The bulkhead element arranged in the area of the fuse cassette
in the direction of relief of the pressure relief device
prevents an escape of hot gases forwards into a fuse
compartment by specifically diverting the gases into a
discharge channel. This ensures that, in particular even when
the switchgear system is expanded, substantially no gases
escape forwards towards an operator when the switchgear cabinet

is opened in the event of a fault, in particular the fuse
compartment

containing the fuse cassettes. This provides a high level of
operating safety. The use of simple bulkhead elements results
in a compact and simple as well as cost-effective construction.
A possible embodiment of the invention provides that, with an
arrangement of the pressure relief device in the area of the
rear wall of the container, a rear bulkhead element is
associated with those ends, in particular the rear ends, of the
fuse cassettes which lie in the direction of the area of the
rear wall of the container, and is arranged to conceal or cover
these at least partially or completely. At the same time, in
particular, a bulkhead plate at the rear of the fuse cassettes
is drawn in to provide partial or complete covering so that
escaping gases are deflected downwards past the fuse cassettes.
This reliably prevents gases entering the fuse compartment so
that no gases escape forwards towards an operator when a fuse
element is changed or replaced.
In a further alternative embodiment, when the pressure relief
device is arranged at least in a side wall area of the
container, a lateral bulkhead element is associated with that
side of the fuse cassettes which faces the direction of relief
and is arranged to provide at least partial or complete
covering. The bulkhead element which is arranged on the side of
the fuse cassette(s) enables the escaping gases to be diverted
sideways and downwards and therefore prevents the escaping
gases entering the fuse compartment.
In an alternative arrangement of the pressure relief device at
least in a floor area of the container, a front bulkhead
element is preferably associated with a front wall area of the
container and/or cabinet front area and the fuse cassettes and
is arranged to provide at least partial or complete covering of
this front wall area and/or cabinet front area. In doing so, a

front bulkhead element of this kind provides a pressure-tight
seal for the fuse cassettes against the outside of the
switchgear system, thus reliably preventing the gases from
escaping forwards.
In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, when the
pressure relief device is arranged in the front wall area of
the container, the or a further front bulkhead element is
associated with those ends (front ends) of the fuse cassettes
which lie in the direction of the front wall area of the
container and is arranged to provide at least partial covering
for these and the front wall area of the container. In doing
so, the bulkhead element(s) is/are arranged in the front area,
in particular the cabinet front area of the switchgear system,
to provide partial or complete covering for the front wall area
of the container and/or the fuse cassettes. Front bulkhead
elements of this kind therefore provide a pressure-tight seal
for the fuse cassettes against the outside of the switchgear
system, thus reliably preventing the gases from escaping
forwards.
In an advantageous embodiment, the specific bulkhead element is
designed in particular to be pressure-tight in such a way that
it forms a discharge in the direction of relief. The respective
bulkhead element is suitably shaped for this purpose. For
example, the bulkhead element is designed in the form of a
bulkhead sheet, a bulkhead plate and/or a bulkhead section.
Also, a plurality of bulkhead elements can be provided which
are arranged in such a way that they form a channel through
which escaping gases are reliably diverted downwards.
In addition, the channel can be provided with at least one
associated control element, in particular a valve flap. In
doing so, the channel is closed by means of the control element
in such a way that a penetration of such gases as are produced,
for example, by an arc in an adjacent part of the system, is

prevented. This ensures that gases escaping from adjacent parts
of the system do not enter the area of the fuse cassettes and
therefore

the fuse compartment, and do not permanently damage these, in
particular the fuse elements.
A simple embodiment provides that the bulkhead element is made
of metal, in particular sheet steel. Alternatively, the
bulkhead element can be made of plastic, in particular
Duroplast or Thermoplast, or another suitable, in particular
fiber-reinforced, plastic.
In addition, the bulkhead element can be designed in the form
of a multi-part element which, for example, at least partially
or completely encloses the fuse cassettes and/or which forms a
channel for discharging gases escaping from the container.
Further, the fuse cassettes can be provided with at least one
receiving element, in particular a slot, in which the bulkhead
element is arranged. This enables a simple or freely accessible
assembly or disassembly of the bulkhead element.
In addition, at least one guide element can be arranged in the
area of the direction of relief, in particular before the
pressure relief device. In doing so, the guide element is
designed in such a way that it forms a discharge and/or
diversion in the direction of relief for escaping gases. This
ensures that escaping gases are diverted downwards and/or
backwards and downwards so that no gases can escape forwards
when operating the switchgear system.
Expediently, the guide element is designed as a section. For
example, the guide element can be designed in the form of a U-
section, an L-section or a hollow channel section. A plurality
of guide elements can also be provided which are arranged in
such a way that they form a guide channel. To close or open the
guide channel in the event of a fault in an adjacent part of
the system or in the event of a fault in the associated part of
the system, in particular the associated

switching device,

the guide channel is provided with at least one associated
control element, in particular an adjustable valve flap.
A simple embodiment provides that the guide element is made of
metal, in particular sheet steel. Alternatively, the guide
element can be made of plastic, in particular Duroplast or
Thermoplast, or another suitable, in particular fiber-
reinforced, plastic.
Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more
detail with reference to drawings. In the drawings:
FIG 1 shows schematically in front view a modular
switchgear system with a switchgear cabinet
comprising a switch panel for at least one switching
device, a fuse compartment arranged thereunder and a
cable connection compartment according to the prior
art,
FIG 2 shows schematically in front view a switchgear
cabinet with open flap for the fuse compartment and
two front bulkhead elements according to the
invention,
FIG 3 shows schematically in longitudinal section a
switchgear cabinet with a rear bulkhead element
according to the invention in the fuse compartment,
FIG 4 shows schematically in front view a switchgear
cabinet with open flap for the fuse compartment and a
lateral bulkhead element according to the invention,
FIG 5 shows schematically in longitudinal section a
switchgear cabinet with a front bulkhead element
according to the invention in the fuse compartment,

FIG 6 shows schematically in longitudinal section a
switchgear cabinet with a front bulkhead element
according to the invention and a guide channel in the
fuse compartment,
FIG 7 shows schematically an enlarged area of the
switchgear cabinet in front view with two front
bulkhead elements arranged in the fuse compartment in
a dismantled state,
FIG 8 shows schematically the area according to Figure 7 in
longitudinal section, and
FIG 9 shows schematically the area according to Figure 7 in
longitudinal section with bulkhead elements mounted
on the fuse cassettes.
Corresponding parts are given the same references in all the
figures.
Figure 1 shows in front view a modular switchgear system 1 with
a switchgear cabinet 2 comprising a switch panel 4 for at least
one switching device, a fuse compartment 6 arranged thereunder
and a cable connection compartment 8 according to the prior
art.
The switchgear system 1 is, in particular, a metal-
encapsulated, gas-insulated medium-voltage switchgear system,
wherein a system-oriented number of switching devices which are
not shown in more detail such as load isolating switches for
example, are arranged in the switch panel 4 in a metal-
encapsulated, gas-insulated container 10.
The fuse compartment 6 is accessible by means of a releasable
fuse cover 12, so that the fuse compartment 6 and if necessary

the adjacent area can be accessed in the event of a fault by-
opening the fuse cover 12.

The cable connection compartment 8 is fitted with a cable
connection faceplate 14.
Figure 2 shows schematically in front view a switchgear cabinet
2 with open fuse cover 12 for the fuse compartment 6.
In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 2, the switchgear system
1 comprises three fuse elements 16 which, in the event of a
disturbance or fault, e.g. in the event of a short circuit or
overload, switch at least one or more of the switching devices
by means of a fuse tripping mechanism 18 so that a load
connected to a network by the switching device is isolated. At
the same time, the switchgear system 1 can have one or more
fuse elements 16 per switching device. The fuse elements 16 are
in each case arranged in an associated fuse cassette 20 (also
referred to as fuse chamber).
In" order t the case of an arcing fault in the container 10, by
specifically directed escape of gases and to specifically route
or deflect the escaping gases, a plurality of bulkhead elements
22.1 to 22.n associated with the fuse cassettes 20 is arranged
in the switchgear cabinet 2 on at least one side facing the
direction of relief of the gas.
In the exemplary embodiment according to Figure 2, two front
bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 are provided which are arranged as
separate flat bulkhead plates or bulkhead walls above and below
the fuse compartment 6 to cover it at the front so that, in the
event of gas escaping downwards from the container 10, a gas
escape forwards is prevented by the front bulkhead elements
22.1, 22.2 by the gas being able to be diverted downwards. At
the same time, the front bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 can be
provided in the switchgear cabinet 2 irrespective of the
position of a pressure relief device 24 arranged on the

container 10, the different positions of which are described in
more detail in the following figures.

Figure 3 shows a further exemplary embodiment for the invention
in which a pressure relief device 24 is arranged in the rear
wall area 26, in particular in a rear floor area 28 of the
container 10.
The pressure relief device 24 is a conventional device, e.g. a
so-called rupture diaphragm or a burst disk with a defined
designated rupturing point which is set, for example, greater
than a maximum gas pressure which occurs in the container 10 in
normal operation and less than a burst pressure for the
container 10. At the same time, the pressure relief device 24
is designed in such a way that it has a predetermined direction
of relief R in which the escaping gas escapes when the pressure
relief device 24 bursts.
A rear bulkhead element 22.3 in the fuse compartment 6 is
associated with the fuse cassettes 20 for specifically
diverting gas which escapes in the event of a fault. At the
same time, the bulkhead element 22.3 has a section shape which
corresponds with the rear outside shape of the fuse cassette(s)
20 so that the fuse cassette(s) 20 is/are substantially
completely covered by the rear bulkhead element 22.3 so that
gas escaping from the container 10 cannot penetrate the fuse
compartment 6 in a forwards direction.
The rear bulkhead element 22.3 is in particular designed as a
bent plate, in particular a bent steel sheet, or as an
appropriately formed plastic plate, for example made from
Thermoplast or Duroplast.
The switching device (s) arranged in the container 10 can be
connected via bushing assemblies 30, which emerge from the
container 10, the fuse element 16 and a cable connection 32,
for example, to a busbar connection in the cable connection
compartment 8 which is not shown in more detail. At the same
time, both the bushing assemblies 30

and the cable connection 32 are appropriately insulated in a
conventional manner.
Figure 4 shows schematically in front view a switchgear cabinet
1 with open fuse cover 12 for the fuse compartment 6 and with a
lateral bulkhead element 22.4 for the fuse compartment 6. In
this exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief device 24 is
arranged at the side of the fuse compartment 6. For example,
the pressure relief device 24 is arranged in a front wall area
34 of the container 10 in the forward-facing floor area 28. In
order to laterally seal off the fuse compartment 6, the lateral
bulkhead element 22.4 is associated with that side of the fuse
cassettes 20 which faces the direction of relief R. At the same
time, the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 completely covers the
side of the fuse cassettes 2 0 so that the escaping gases are
diverted downwards and no gases escaping in the direction of
relief R find their way into the fuse compartment 6. At the
same time, the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 is designed in the
form of an appropriately shaped or bent plate, in particular a
steel plate or plastic plate.
Expediently, the ends of the lateral bulkhead element 22.4
pointing towards the container 10 are bent in such a way that
they run parallel to the floor area 2 8 of the container 10 and
are fixed thereto by friction, interlocking and/or bonding. The
opposite ends of the lateral bulkhead element 22.4 are fixed by
interlocking, friction and/or bonding, for example, to a side
wall 3 6 of the cable connection compartment 8. The lateral
bulkhead element 22.4 can also be fixed in some other suitable
manner to some other suitable point in the switchgear cabinet
2.
Figure 5 shows in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet 2 with a
further front bulkhead element 22.5 in the fuse compartment 6. In this
exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief device 24 is arranged in
the floor area 28 of the container 10 at a predeterminable

position. In order to prevent gases escaping when the fuse
cover 12 is opened, the front bulkhead element 22.5 is arranged
in the cabinet front area 38 of the switchgear cabinet 2 so
that the front bulkhead element 22.5 covers both the front wall
area 34 of the container 10 and the front area of the fuse
compartment 6 so that escaping gases are reliably diverted
downwards. At the same time, the front bulkhead element 22.5
can be divided into a plurality of elements as shown in Figures
7 to 9.
The front bulkhead element 22.5 is designed in the form of a
plate and is as flat as possible and pressure-tight. For
example, the front bulkhead element 22.5 is a steel or plastic
plate. At the same time, the front bulkhead element 22.5 can be
fixed by interlocking, friction and/or bonding to the fuse
cover 12 or some other suitable point.
Figure 6 shows in longitudinal section a switchgear cabinet 2
with a front bulkhead element 22.5 according to the invention.
To reliably divert escaping gases downwards, a guide element 40
can additionally be arranged in the fuse compartment 6 in front
of the front bulkhead element 22.5. In this exemplary
embodiment, a pressure relief device 24 is arranged in the
front wall area 34 of the container 10.
In doing so, the guide element 40 is designed in the form of a
channel in order to deflect and divert the escaping gases. The
guide element 40 can be designed as a section, e.g. a U-
section, an L-section, a hollow cylinder, a tube and/or some
other suitable section for this purpose. The guide element 40
can also be made up of different sections. In order to avoid
additional components, instead of the additional guide element
40, the front bulkhead element 22.5 can be designed in the form
of a channel in a manner which is not shown in more detail. In
particular, the bulkhead element 22.5 is a bulkhead section,
e.g. a U-shaped or L-shaped bulkhead section.

Furthermore, the channel K which is formed by one or more guide
elements 40 or one or more bulkhead elements 22.5 is provided
on the output side with at least one control element, e.g. a
valve flap or non-return flap, so that a penetration of gases
from adjacent switch panels (not shown in more detail) into the
fuse compartment 6 is reliably prevented.
Figure 7 shows schematically an enlarged area of the switchgear
cabinet 2 in front view with two front bulkhead elements 22.1,
22.2 arranged in the fuse compartment 6 in a dismantled state.
At the same time, the ends of the plate-shaped front bulkhead
elements 22.1, 22.2 can be attached to the fuse cassettes 20 by
interlocking, friction and/or bonding. The bulkhead elements
22.1, 22.2 each have a number of recesses 42 corresponding to
the number of fuse cassettes 20 for this purpose.
As shown in Figure 8, the respective fuse cassette 20 is
provided with a slot 42 for this purpose into which the
bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 can be inserted and fixed by
interlocking. Figure 9 shows the bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2
mounted on the fuse cassettes 20. At the same time, the
bulkhead elements 22.1, 22.2 cover the cabinet front area 38 so
that the gases are diverted downwards.

WE CLAIM
1. A switchgear system (1), especially a medium-voltage
switchgear system, comprising a plurality of switching devices,
cable connections (32) and/or busbars which are arranged in a
switchgear cabinet (2), the one or more switching devices being
arranged in a metal-encapsulated container (10) which is filled
with insulating gas above a plurality of fuse cassettes (20)
containing fuse elements (16) in the switchgear cabinet (2),
characterized in that the container (10) is provided with at
least one pressure relief device (24) having a predetermined
direction of relief (R), at least one bulkhead element (22.1 to
22.n) being associated with the fuse cassettes (20) on at least
one side facing the direction of relief (R).
2. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 1,
characterized in that with an arrangement of the pressure
relief device (24) in the area of the rear wall (26) of the
container (10), a rear bulkhead element (22.3) is associated
with those ends of the fuse cassettes (20) which lie in the
direction of the area of the rear wall (26) of the container
(10), and is arranged to cover these at least partially.
3. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that when the pressure relief device (24) is
arranged at least in a side wall area of the container (10), a
lateral bulkhead element (22.4) is associated with that side of
the fuse cassettes (20) which faces the direction of relief (R)
and is arranged to provide at least partial covering.
4. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that

when the pressure relief device (24) is arranged at least in a
floor area (28) of the container (10), a front bulkhead element
(22.5) is associated with a cabinet front area (38) of the
switchgear cabinet (2) and the fuse cassettes (2 0) and is
arranged to provide at least partial covering of this cabinet
front area (38).
5. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that when the pressure
relief device (24) is arranged in the front wall area (34) of
the container (10), at least one front bulkhead element (22.5)
and/or one guide element (40) is associated with those ends of
the fuse cassettes (20) which lie in the direction of the front
wall area (34) of the container (10) and is arranged to provide
at least partial covering for these and the front wall area
(34) of the container (10).
6. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that at least one front
bulkhead element (22.1, 22.2) is arranged in the cabinet front
area (38) of the switchgear cabinet (2).
7. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that the specific bulkhead
element (22.1 to 22.n) is designed in such a way that it forms
a discharge in the direction of relief (R).
8. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that the specific bulkhead
element (22.1 to 22.n) is designed in the form of a bulkhead
sheet, a bulkhead plate and/or a bulkhead section.
9. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of bulkhead
elements (22.1 to 22.n) are provided which are arranged in such
a way that they form a channel (K).

10. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 9,
characterized in that the channel (K) is provided with at least
one associated control element, in particular a valve flap or a
non-return flap.
11. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that the bulkhead element
(22.1 to 22.n) is made of metal, in particular sheet steel.
12. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that the bulkhead element
(22.1 to 22.n) is made of plastic, in particular Duroplast or
Thermoplast, or another suitable, in particular fiber-
reinforced, plastic.
13. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that the bulkhead element
(22.1 to 22.n) is designed in the form of a multi-part element
which at least partially or completely encloses the fuse
cassettes (20).
14. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that the fuse cassettes (20)
are provided with at least one receiving element, in particular
a slot (44), in which the bulkhead element (22.1, 22.2) can be
arranged.
15. The switchgear system as claimed in one of the
preceding claims, characterized in that at least one guide
element (40) is arranged in the area of the direction of relief
(R) of the gas, in particular on the output side of the
pressure relief device (24).

16. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 15,
characterized in that the guide element (40) is designed in
such a way that it forms a discharge and/or diversion in the
direction of relief (R).
17. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 15 or 16,
characterized in that the guide element (40) is designed as a
section.
18. The switchgear system as claimed in one of claims 15 to
17, characterized in that a plurality of guide elements (40)
are provided which are arranged in such a way that they form a
guide channel (K).
19. The switchgear system as claimed in claim 18,
characterized in that the guide channel (K) is provided with at
least one associated control element, in particular a valve
flap or a non-return flap.

The invention relates to a switchgear system (1),
especially a medium voltage switchgear system comprising a
pluralit of switchgears, cable connections (32) and/or bus bars
which are arranged in a switchgear cabinet (2), the one or more
switchgears being arranged in a metal-encapsulated container (10),
which is filled with an insulating gas, on top of a plurality of fuse
cartridges(20) having fuse elements (16). The container (10) is
provided with at least one pressure relief device (24) having a
predetermined direction of relief (R), the fuse cartridges (20) being
associated with at least one bulkhead element (22.1 to 22.n) on at
least one side facing the direction of relief (R).

Documents:

http://ipindiaonline.gov.in/patentsearch/GrantedSearch/viewdoc.aspx?id=ZwgdlbG7L+7cXYLxKeuYlA==&loc=wDBSZCsAt7zoiVrqcFJsRw==

« Previous Patent

Next Patent »

Patent Number

279715

Indian Patent Application Number

2664/KOLNP/2010

PG Journal Number

05/2017

Publication Date

03-Feb-2017

Grant Date

30-Jan-2017

Date of Filing

21-Jul-2010

Name of Patentee

SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

Applicant Address

WITTELSBACHERPLATZ 2, 80333 MUNCHEN, GERMANY

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	CLEMENS ALBERT	BAHNHOFSTR. 30 63773 GOLDBACH
2	STEFEN HOHMANN	EDITH STEIN STR. 17 36100 PETERSBERG
3	GUIDO JUNKER	UDO-MUELLER-RING 55 63486 BRUCHKOEBEL
4	JÖRG TEICHMANN	HINTER DEN ZAUNEN 5A 63755 ALZENAU

PCT International Classification Number

H02B 13/025

PCT International Application Number

PCT/EP2009/055417

PCT International Filing date

2009-05-05

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	102008023503.2	2008-05-09	Germany