Latest advancements in vacuum circuit breakers for modern medium-voltage switchgear systems

Adopting standardised protocols like IEC 61850 further streamlines communication between devices, enabling faster and more reliable data transmission.

The field of digital substation automation is experiencing transformative advancements driven by innovations in switchgear, numerical relays, and IoT-based solutions. Stelmec has been at the forefront of these developments, with manufacturing facilities in Mumbai and Ahmedabad producing various products, including indoor and outdoor switchgear systems up to 36kV, numerical relays, and IoT-based devices. The company’s offerings serve both domestic and international markets, contributing significantly to renewable energy projects like windmill installations.

Recognising the challenges faced by substations, especially in rural and remote areas, Stelmec, a leading firm in the switchgear industry, focuses on cost-effective automation solutions. Traditional SCADA-based systems often require substantial investment and infrastructure, making them unsuitable for smaller or remote substations. To bridge this gap, the company developed an IoT-based gateway device that connects various substation components, including relays, sensors, and meters, enabling remote monitoring and control. This innovation not only reduces operational costs but also enhances safety and efficiency.

A critical component of modern switchgear systems is the vacuum circuit breaker, which has replaced older technologies like air and oil-based breakers in medium-voltage applications. Integrated with numerical relays, these systems provide advanced functionality, such as fault detection, auto-reclosing, and remote control. The numerical relays, also called IEDs (Intelligent Electronic Devices), are equipped with advanced communication protocols like RS485 and RJ45, enabling seamless integration with IoT devices and SCADA systems.

To address the specific needs of rural substations, Stelmec’s IoT gateway device supports GSM and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing real-time data monitoring and control without the need for costly infrastructure. This setup ensures uninterrupted operation during adverse weather conditions, safeguarding operators’ safety and reducing the need for physical presence at substations. These devices provide comprehensive data that enhances decision-making and maintenance planning by integrating functionalities like fault recording, voltage monitoring, and power factor analysis.

Digitalisation has also extended to protective devices like current and voltage transformers, which are crucial in ensuring reliable data inputs for automated systems. Stelemec’s solutions are designed to make substations unmanned, reducing human intervention while improving operational reliability. These innovations are aligned with global trends towards adopting IoT and AI for smarter grid management.

Future advancements in this field will likely include cloud-based data analytics, augmented and virtual reality for enhanced operational awareness, and tighter integration with renewable energy systems. Adopting standardised protocols like IEC 61850 further streamlines communication between devices, enabling faster and more reliable data transmission. Further, digital substation automation represents a paradigm shift in power distribution and management. By leveraging IoT devices, advanced relays, and smart grid technologies, Stelmec aims to deliver cost-effective, efficient, and sustainable solutions.

To sum up, as the industry evolves, innovations in AI, IT integration, and renewable energy integration will continue to shape the future of intelligent substations, ensuring a more resilient and efficient power grid. These efforts meet current operational challenges and pave the way for a sustainable energy landscape in India.