What are GIS medium voltage switchboards and what are their advantages?
What is a GIS dashboard and how does it work?
Medium voltage switchgear GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) A gas-insulated switchgear is a compact, all-metal assembly of key electrical equipment used to control, protect and distribute electrical energy in medium-voltage networks (usually up to 52 kV). Its main difference from conventional switchgear (AIS) is that all live components, such as circuit breakers, section switches, busbars and current and voltage transformers, are housed in a fully enclosed metal enclosure and are insulated by an insulating gas, usually gas. SF₆ (sulfur hexafluoride)They are surrounded.
SF₆ gas has excellent dielectric properties, which make it about three times more insulating than ordinary air. This property allows the distance between conductive parts to be greatly reduced, allowing equipment to withstand high voltages in a much smaller space than air-based models. This technology has been successfully used in power grids around the world since the late 1960s.
The most important benefits of GIS boards
- Occupies much less space than AIS boards: The biggest advantage of GIS panels is their ultra-compact design. They can take up one-tenth of the space required by an AIS.
- Very high safety: Since all live parts are contained within a grounded metal enclosure, the risk of electric shock is minimized.
- Very high reliability and durability: The sealed enclosure completely protects the internal equipment from damaging environmental factors.
- Reduced maintenance costs: Due to the complete protection of the main components, GIS panels require very little maintenance.
- Faster installation and setup: The integrated and modular structure greatly speeds up the installation process.
- Resistance to harsh environmental conditions: Ideal for areas with heavy pollution, high humidity and dust.
In what projects is the GIS board used?
- Power plants (especially wind, solar, and hydroelectric power plants)
- Oil, gas and petrochemical industries
- Industrial factories and large complexes
- Data Centers
- Airports, subways and railways
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Shopping malls, high-rise towers, and densely populated residential areas
- Urban power distribution substations and areas with high land values
GIS and AIS switchgear
The choice between these two technologies depends on factors such as available space, initial budget, lifetime costs, and environmental conditions of the project.
| Feature | Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) | Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and installation space | Very small and compact | Very large and requires a large area of land. |
| Safety | Very high (live parts in grounded enclosure) | Direct access to live parts |
| Maintenance and repairs | Very little | More and requires regular periodic services |
| Resistance to pollution | Very high, ideal for polluted environments | Sensitive to dust, moisture and pollution |
| Initial cost | Higher | Lower |
| Total life cycle cost | More cost-effective (less maintenance) | Repair costs may be high. |
| Ideal application | Urban spaces, harsh environments, enclosed spaces | Open spaces, areas with low pollution |
The future of GIS switchgear
Despite all the advantages, the most important challenge facing GIS panels is the environmental issue of SF₆ gas. This gas is one of the most potent greenhouse gases known, with a global warming potential of about 22,800 times that of carbon dioxide. For this reason, international regulations have severely restricted its use, and the industry is moving towards a new generation of panels. SF6-free GIS It has moved.
Major manufacturers are now offering GIS switchgear using natural gases (such as dry compressed air) that have comparable technical characteristics to SF₆ models, but with zero environmental impact. These new technologies, combined with digitalization and the use of smart sensors, will enable a more sustainable, intelligent and reliable future for electricity distribution networks.
Why Noban Barg Pars?
Noban Barg Pars Company, utilizing up-to-date technical knowledge, valuable experience and commitment to international standards, designs and manufactures a variety of GIS medium voltage switchboards for power distribution networks, industries and infrastructure projects. With a deep understanding of the diverse needs of projects in various environmental conditions (from hot and dry areas to humid and industrial environments), the company offers solutions that, while enjoying the highest level of safety and reliability, are also economically optimal. Noban Barg Pars’ focus on quality construction, providing long-lasting products and strong technical support has made the company a reliable partner for providing the country’s vital electricity infrastructure.
Final conclusion
As an advanced and efficient technology, GIS medium voltage switchgear plays a key role in increasing the reliability, safety and power density of modern power grids. Compact design, complete protection against environmental factors, significantly reduced maintenance costs and long service life make this equipment an ideal choice for industrial, infrastructure and urban projects of any scale. With the growing trend of renewable energy use and the need for smart and sustainable grids, the importance of this technology will be felt more than ever.