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A medium voltage switchgear assembly is designed, built and tested in accordance with a specific set or sets of standards. To participate on a global basis, the equipment must meet all applicable ANSI, IEEE, NEMA and IEC standards, depending upon the region where the equipment is applied. Regional, Local, and Customer-Specific Standards Unlike an individual component, which also must meet certain specific standards, the manufacturer must know – and be able to prove by testing –that each and every component functions properly when installed in the assembly. This is quite a task, considering the vast number of different devices and pieces that can comprise an assembly.
Figure 29. Dominant Regional Standards Throughout the World In addition to regional standards, an assembly may frequently be required to meet specific local standards. Very specific tests could even be required for the equipment before it can be permitted for use in certain areas or applications. Two such applications are Seismically-Qualified and Arc-Resistant equipment. The design of arc-resistant equipment is dedicated to the safe control and release of arc-related overpressures. Finally, an assembly often must meet very specific customer requirements , such as the type of wire used, or the type of finish applied to the metal housing. Testing is Very Extensive The design and proof testing and the production testing of a medium voltage switchgear assembly varies, depending upon whether it is compliant with ANSI or IEC standards. No matter which set of standards is dominant, the testing programs are very extensive. We will not attempt to cover the individual aspects of assembly testing here. But, to provide an idea of the testing’s involvement, look below at just some of the ANSI requirements. Design and Proof Testing The design and proof testing of the assembly to show compliance with applicable ANSI standards includes, but is not limited to:
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