What are the environmental conditions for installing low-voltage switchgear, and how do these environmental factors affect it?
2026-01-04 15:50:31
To ensure the normal operation of low-voltage power systems, it is crucial to determine the installation and operating conditions of low-voltage switchgear. Designers need to consider the on-site operating and environmental conditions, and understand all electrical data of the power grid and the structural data of the low-voltage switchgear. Only in this way can the selected low-voltage switchgear achieve optimal technical performance and a reasonable investment cost, i.e., the best cost-effectiveness.
During the 15-20 year working life of low-voltage switchgear, the impact of the environment on its lifespan cannot be underestimated. The possible environmental impacts on low-voltage switchgear are shown in Table 1.
| Environmental parameters | Potential effects on low-voltage switchgear |
| Low temperature | 1. Plastics become brittle. 2. Lubricant viscosity increases. |
| High temperature |
1. The plastic accelerates aging and reduces mechanical and electrical performance. 2. The lubricant evaporates and solidifies. 3. Electrical heat dissipation is hindered. |
| High relative humidity in the air | 1. Promotes corrosion, especially at high temperatures and high humidity levels. 2. Reduces the insulation performance of insulating materials. |
| Low air pressure | The cooling efficiency of electrical appliances and components that rely on air convection for heat dissipation will be reduced. |
| Exposure to sunlight | The paint layer on the surface of the switchgear will fade. |
| Ultraviolet (UV) light | UV light accelerates the aging of plastics and reduces their mechanical and electrical properties. |
| Condensation | 1. Promotes corrosion 2. Reduces surface resistance and insulation strength, which is even more severe when the insulator surface is contaminated. |
| Salt spray and corrosive gases | 1. Cause corrosion 2. Reduce surface resistance and insulation strength, which is even more severe when the insulator surface is contaminated. |
| Sand and dust | 1. Mechanical failure, affecting the operational performance of electrical appliances. 2. Reduces the contact area of motor contacts. |
| Impact and vibration | 1. Can cause electrical equipment to malfunction. 2. Can loosen fasteners, affecting the stability of the switchgear. |
What are the environmental requirements for low-voltage switchgear? See Table 2.
| Environmental Parameters | Environmental parameters for low-voltage switchgear | Description |
| Temperature | Operating temperature: Short-term maximum temperature: +40℃ Maximum average temperature over 24 hours: 35℃ Minimum temperature: -5℃ Storage and transport temperature: Between -25℃ and +55℃, and can reach +70℃ for short periods (not exceeding 24 hours). |
When the switchgear operates at temperatures higher than those specified in the table, derating is required. |
| Relative humidity | At 40℃, the value is 50%; at +20℃, it is 90%. | |
| Atmospheric pressure | 70~106 kPa | Standard atmospheric pressure is 101.325 kPa. |
| Condensation | Occasional occurrence | Ventilation or heating is used in switchgear cabinets to prevent condensation. |
| Salt spray | Suitable for use in coastal and marine environments | Complies with GB/T2423.17-2008 |
| Sand and dust | Permanent access to electrical equipment | Not tested |
| Shock and vibration | Impact resistance value: 0.63 |
To extend the service life, the impact of the above environmental factors on the switchgear should be considered as much as possible during the design process. The switchgear was designed to achieve optimal operating conditions.
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Shaanxi Huadian is a professional supplier of low-voltage switchgear solutions. Our products feature a modular design for easy maintenance and flexible expansion, multiple safety protection systems to ensure safe operation, intelligent monitoring interfaces for real-time status monitoring, and the use of environmentally friendly materials to promote sustainable development. We provide customized power distribution solutions based on our customers' specific needs. Please contact us if you are interested.
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