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TE News: Compact elbow connectors designed for smaller switchgears

2024-01-25 | Return

The latest modular and smaller switchgear units used in the power industry require more space-efficient connectivity solutions. TE’s first IEEE-certified smart-compatible compact elbows can reduce stacking length by 40% thanks to their flexible, streamlined design.

TE Connectivity (TE), a world leader in connectors and sensors, addresses a critical current need in the power industry: space. TE’s Raychem ELBA Asymmetric Compact Elbow Connector can cut stacking length by 40%, making it currently the most compact design on the market. This smaller footprint is complemented by increased range and installation flexibility. One standard body size can cover up to 1,500 Kcmil, making it possible to use a single unit rather than two, streamlining the design and installation process.

It is TE’s first compact connector compatible with smart voltage detection systems to be certified to IEEE 386-2016 standards and offers easy and flexible installation. These features make it an optimum choice for wind farms, data centers, solar farms, underground power networks, and other facilities where space is tight and rapid project rollout is crucial.

“Compatibility with our Kries CAPDIS smart grid monitoring product opens up opportunities to install smart systems in existing infrastructure. The reduced footprint means it is well suited to facilities where there is pressure on space, and it offers seamless integration with both new and existing medium voltage equipment,” said TE Product Manager Wentao Yao.

Customers can choose the configuration that is most suited to their specific needs and enjoy dedicated local support through the entire design and implementation process. These compact elbows can be configured as a single stack, as a double stack with a coupling connector, as a triple stack with a coupling connector and surge arrestor, or as a smart stack with voltage detection. They can be deployed underground as disconnectable inline joints or as a double connection.

The cable cutback preparation is the same as with standard IEEE elbow connectors, requiring no additional training. Its lead-free peroxide-cured EPDM body offers further confidence in its resilience, improved insulation, and long service life. “This is a highly reliable, compact solution. It can be fitted in existing and new build facilities, and the fact that it can be upgraded to a smart connector means that the compact elbow also offers long-term benefits for safety and grid reliability,” said Yao.

Source: http://www.te.com