UNDERGROUND SAFETY, AUTOMATED Reducing truck rolls and creating safer ways for lineworkers to restore power doesn’t stop at overhead equipment. Our innovations also go deep underground. When a fault occurs on an underground residential distribution circuit, it always results in a permanent outage. Traditionally, this has required crews to physically move or reconnect cables that carry medium-voltage electricity — an operation that can be hazardous if the fault is still active. The EdgeRestore system uses an automated switching solution to restore power in under 60 seconds without a crew on-site. “Although it’s still a newcomer to the field, the solution is proving effective in cutting down emergency callouts, speeding up fault detection, and keeping crews safer around live equipment,” says Chad.
When a permanent outage occurs, the recloser disconnects from the line and provides a clear visual signal showing the issue’s location. This helps crews spend less time searching for the fault in dangerous conditions, and allows them to go straight to the source.
ONE SAFE TEAM INCLUDES OUR CUSTOMERS
TripSaver II recloser installation
Our commitment to safety is more than a priority. It is a promise to our team members who manufacture our products, and to our customers who use them, to keep the power on for our communities. Our team members take pride in knowing their work supports power reliability and helps our customers return home safely after every shift — just like we do at S&C. n
ENERGIZING FROM A DISTANCE The VacuFuse II interrupter also helps avoid unnecessary truck rolls during temporary faults, and provides a visible marker for easy detection during permanent outages on overhead distribution transformers. “Along with its automatic power restoration technologies, one of the most exciting safety features of the interrupter is that its delayed closing capabilities allow line crews to energize a transformer from a distance during permanent outages, instead of standing directly underneath its sparks, like you would with a fuse. Crews appreciate that,” says Lea Maurer, Business Development Director.
VacuFuse II interrupter installed in Chicago
9 Volts & Jolts | Volume 68 | Issue 2
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