ABB has introduced a new version of high-speed bi-directional direct current (DC) circuit breakers to roll stock applications that cover 1500V systems as well as protective metallic enclosures.
With this additional variant, ABB increases its market coverage in metro and light rail applications primarily operating at 1500 V. The 1500 V DCBreak design inherits its main features from the existing 750 V version, such as a small footprint, reduced weight, and ease of maintenance. The DCBreak is a ‘plug and play’ solution for simple replacement of the majority of circuit breakers currently available on the market, both for installation in the undercarriage as well as overhead, without the need for specific adaption.
It’s predicted that about 60 percent of the world’s population will live in cities by 2030 which makes transportation by rail the sustainable and eco-efficient alternative to move goods and people as cities become congested and polluted.“The new version of DCBreak meets the increasing requirements for eco-efficient solutions without reducing performance,” said Alessandro Palin, managing director of ABB's Medium Voltage business. “With the complete DCBreak range we can better support a new market sector for DC applications.”
The use of cadmium-free contacts allows the new product to be RoHS compliant, while remaining on a par with the lightest comparable circuit breakers on the market.
With the extended DCBreak range, ABB has confirmed its willingness to provide to the rolling stock industry first-class products that are fully type-tested according to latest IEC 60077-3 and IEC 61373 standards, with ratings that meet customer requirements.
Moreover the optional protective metallic enclosure is fit for operation in highly aggressive and polluted environments. The design prevents severe damage in case of shock and risk of hazardous voltages on its external surfaces, while offering multiple customization possibilities with regards to fixing points, glanding plates, low-voltage plugs or paint colors.
ABB has a range of power and automation products and solutions for the rail industry and a vast global installed base. Increasing concern for the environment, rapid urbanization, and the need to move more people and freight faster makes investments in rail attractive.
Since 1891, ABB has been at the heart of the rail industry, providing the power and equipment to move people and freight across nations and continents.
ABB’s range of medium-voltage products for railways includes the complete range of switchgear solutions and substation components specially designed and adapted to comply with railway technical specifications. ABB offers a comprehensive range of AC and DC products for traction power supply and substation automation (local control and protection). The introduction of the DCBreak fortifies ABB’s superior offering for the rail segment and reinforces its position as the one-stop-shop for rail applications.