HT (High Tension) & LT (Low Tension) Switchgear

Switchgear refers to the electrical devices used to control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment. They can be broadly divided into High Tension (HT) and Low Tension (LT) switchgear, depending on the voltage levels they are designed for.

HT (High Tension) Switchgear

  • Voltage Range: Typically 11 kV and above (up to 400 kV and even higher).
  • Functions: HT switchgear is designed to handle the switching and protection of high-voltage circuits in substations and industrial installations.
    • Circuit Breakers: Used to automatically or manually open or close a circuit to prevent damage from overcurrent or short circuits.
    • Isolators: Used for isolating sections of the circuit for maintenance.
    • Busbars: These are conductors used to distribute power between different circuits in a substation.
    • Relays: Protect the circuit by detecting abnormal conditions and triggering the circuit breaker.

Key Considerations for HT Switchgear:

  • Safety: The high voltage in HT systems can be dangerous. Therefore, protection systems such as earth fault protection, overcurrent protection, and arc-fault protection are integral.
  • Enclosures: HT switchgear often comes in sealed, often metal-enclosed units to avoid damage and ensure safe operation in hazardous environments.

LT (Low Tension) Switchgear

  • Voltage Range: Typically operates at voltages below 1 kV, but can go up to 11 kV.
  • Functions: LT switchgear handles the distribution of electricity to consumers (residential or industrial) and protects the equipment at these lower voltage levels.
    • Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs): Used to protect against overloads and short circuits in low-voltage circuits.
    • Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs): Provide protection against overloads and short circuits for industrial or commercial setups.
    • Fuse Switches: Provide protection by disconnecting the circuit when the current exceeds the rated value.

Key Considerations for LT Switchgear:

  • Affordability: LT switchgear is generally smaller, more affordable, and simpler compared to HT switchgear.
  • Space Efficiency: LT systems are often found in compact setups and are used in residential, commercial, and industrial power distribution.