Low Voltage Switchboards
Low Voltage Switchboards
Optimal Power Distribution
The uninterrupted supply of power to systems and consumers onboard modern ships is an extremly important matter. This is, however, only possible if a reliable power distribution system adapted to the needs of the customer is installed. The automation or propulsion system, navigation or communication system and the different consumers need a constant network and the controlled flow of power is essential for smooth operation.
Our systems for switchboards and switchgear assemblies present long-time experience and have proven successful on ships of all types for
many decades and meet the necessary rules and requirements.
We project, design, manufacture, deliver and install low-voltage switchboards for merchant, special and naval ships of all sizes, either as part of a complete electrical system or as individual units.
By virtue of our extensive know-how in all areas of maritime electronic and electrical applications, national and international shipping companies and shipyards welcome us as a competent partner for complex ship projects.
Not Many Components – But Many Possibilities
Our switchboards offer the ideal solution for power distribution for ships. We offer and deliver the best technical solution for your project and your demand:
n Welded frame, modular intern assembly,
busbar system (perforated/drilled system for connection and junction)
n Welded frame, modular intern assembly,
double busbar system (clamping system for connection and junction)
n Modular frame, modular intern assembly,
double busbar system (clamping system for connection and junction)
The mechanical and electrical components are extensively standardized, thus warranting interchangeability and safety.
The plug-in and withdrawable technology (optional) enables maintenance and inspection of power switches at no risk even during running operation. Standardized accessories for all unit sizes assure a high level of service-friendliness. The cabinets accommodate universal mounting frames and brackets that can be adjusted in height and depth.
The System Modules
Highest Level of Power
Distribution Systems
Main switchboards (MSB)
The generator panels are directly connected to the main power generators. Generator protection as well as synchronising devices are important parts of the instrumentation. From the other MSB panels the power is distributed to further subdistributors or directly to the consumers.
Emergency switchboards (ESB)
In case of a power failure in the MSB, the emergency switchboard supplies the vital consu-mers (e.g. emergency lighting, manoeuvring systems, navigation and communication). During undisturbed operation the ESB is fed from the MSB, in emergency from the emergency generator.
Low Voltage Switchboards
Next Level of Power
Distribution Systems
Motor Control Center (MCC)
A central switching and control system accomodates the switchgears for important motor consumers. The MCC can be installed separately or in conjunction with the MSB.
Motor Switchgear (MSG)
This is a switching and control unit for at least one motor consumer. The motor switchgears are installed decentrally near the consumers.
Distributions for Power Systems (DBP)
Several electrical circuits are combined in a switch box. The distributions are installed decentrally near the consumers.
The Different Modes
Distributions for Lighting Systems (DBL)
Several circuits for the lighting as well as for other consumers are combined in a switch box and installed decentrally near the consumers.
SC (Shore Connection Box)
This is used for the electrical power supply of the ship at port with a power source installed on shore (communal network).
Emergency Stop Panel
According to the requirements of the classifica-tion societies, addiclassifica-tional emergency stop circuits have to be installed for certain consumers at a location that is seperated from their installation position, e.g. in order to switch off fans, the fuel or oil pumps in the endagered area in case of a fire.
Normal / Emergency Mode
Under normal operating conditions, the main switchboard supplies the consumers connected to the power distribution circuits and the emergency switchboard. Under emergency conditions, the emergency switchboard supplies all the emergency consumers as specified by the classification societies.
Shore Connection Operation
Shore connection via black out
All generators are switched off, the shipboard network is deenergized. The electrical power can then be supplied from the shore-based source to the main switchboard.
Uninterrupted shore-connection
If the ship requires an uninterrupted power supply e.g. for passenger areas, measurement or scientific systems, an uninterrupted load transfer is necessary. The ship‘s main generators are then synchronized with the shore-based network and load is automatically transfered. Then the generators are disconnected from the network. At take off from the harbour the sequence is run reversly. This functionality requires a power management system.
Special Modes
Feedback or port operation
The emergency switchboard, supplied from the emergency generator, supplies the main switch-board but all functions of emergency operation are maintained. This mode is necessary when the power requirement of the ship at port is greater than the possible power supply from the shore-based connection.
The following modes can be selected for power supply:
Manual operation
All activities required for operation of the power supply are carried out manually: the indicators and controls in the switchboard are used for this purpose.
Automatic operation
All activities required for operation of the power supply are carried out automatically: The Power management system GEAPAS 500 (GPM 500 and DPM 500) is used for this purpose. With an external monitoring and control system (e.g. MCS 2200) a common station for indication and control is given.
Mechanical System Components
Low Voltage Switchboards
Welded Panel Frames
The structure consists of a frame made from welded sections with integrated top sheet and bottom frame. Centre sections are welded in position in the front and rear area while U-sections are welded to the structure for lateral reinforcement to provide good mechanical strength properties. Each section consists of an open square with lateral faces accommodating the grid system that gives the frame its universal flexibility. Electrical equipment from all manufacturers may be fitted in accordance with the customers‘ preferences. The center sections are U-shaped and are provided with holes to accommodate the insulated hand rails. The holes for the door lock are located in the front center section.
Modular Panel Frames
The modular switchgear system is a flexible, type-tested and well proven system that Wärtsilä SAM Electronics has supplied for many years. This modular system has been modified for shipboard use and is coming with a special grid system that allows different types of functional units, e.g. plug-in units, compartmented units or normal electrical components to be mixed within one assembly. Electrical equipment from all manufacturers can be fitted in accordance to the customer‘s preferences.
The modular system offers many different possibilities to design the panel; it is possible
Mounting Aids and Assembly
Holders
Mounting plates and brackets consisting of 2.5 to 3.0 mm galvanized steel sheet tailored specifically to the electrical components are used in each switchboard. The mounting aid can be adjusted in height and depth according to the design grid.
Electrical System Components
The system as well as the protective earth conductors and sinks consist of ECu 57 (copper of electrical engineering applications in accordance with DIN-EN 13601 and DIN-EN 13605). The system as well as the air and creeping distances have been dimensioned in accordance with IEC-EN 60947-1 as well as the requirements of the classification societies.
The Flat Copper Rail System
As a standard solution, the main busbar is installed in the rear center field area. Clamping plates in accordance with DIN 6796 assure a maintenance-free busbar system.
Double busbar system Busbar system flat cooper
The Double Copper Rail System
The busbar system solution consists of modular components. This ensures a high standard of flexibility. As a standard solution, the main busbar is installed in the top field area. Depending on the application it is possible to install the busbar system also in the rear or the bottom area of the switchboard. By means of a two-busbar installation easy solutions can be realized for double feedings (e.g. large consumers, bow thruster).
Internal Arc Protection
Barriers as well as special cover of the copper rail system with arcprotecting varnish are an optional feature for protection against internal arcs.
Arc protection for main busbar between two panels Rear view with double busbar system
Prin ted in G erman y • Technic al alt er ations r eser ved • © W är tsilä SA M E lec tronics G mbH • DS 2.003.10/2015
Technical Data
Low Voltage Switchboards
Nominal voltage up to 690 V
Nominal frequency 40 - 60 Hz
Rated current up to 8,500 A
Rated peak withstand Ip up to 330 kA
Draw-out technique up to 145 kA
Rated short-time withstand Icw up to 150 kA for 1 sec
Draw-out technique up to 70 kA
Enclosure standard IP21/IP22, bottom open
special up to IP54
Ambient temperature 45°C / 50°C
Certificate Ship Classification Societies
Technical Overview
Special Switchboards
Customized special switchboards for every application can be designed and produced with high quality standard according to classification rules.
