Siemens has recently introduced what is claimed to be one of the world’s most innovative circuit protection devices. Here we learn more about the SENTRON ECPD.
By utilising cutting-edge electronic switching technology, the SENTRON ECPD (Electronic Circuit Protection Device) electronically switches off circuit faults if errors occur and, if necessary, trips the mechanical isolating contact downstream. Until now, disconnection was handled purely through electro-mechanical elements.
SENTRON ECPD enables completely new approaches to electrical planning, maximising safety, flexibility and delivering enormous space and energy savings compared to conventional solutions. Its features and benefits include:
1. Multifunctional
The smart SENTRON ECPD offers extra functionality in one compact design, saving space and costs. The range of functions can be customised as required with new functions easily activated on the SENTRON ECPD without having to purchase a new device and functionally adapt it into the circuit.
The unit can be adjusted as required and adapts perfectly to the requirements of the application, with regard to rated current, tripping limits or behaviour. These properties offer major planning and cost advantages.
For example, circuits can simply be designed based on the rated current of the loads instead of the significantly higher inrush current peaks that occur briefly with certain load types, such as LED lights.
This reduces complexity as well as planning and installation efforts and saves on materials such as copper.
2. Ultra-fast
In the event of a short circuit, the SENTRON ECPD is claimed to disconnect up to a thousand times faster than traditional circuit breakers, minimising the short-circuit energy.
The product also offers wear-free switching, which increases the service life of systems and reduces maintenance and repair costs. Additionally, the integrated cyclical self-test (including the integrated RCD function) raises safety to an entirely new level.
3. Reduce operating costs and downtime
SENTRON ECPD offers full transparency on energy consumption in the final circuit through radio-based communication with the SENTRON Powercenter 1000 and 3000 gateways. This enables measurements to optimise systems and processes, which in turn allows for efficient reductions in energy and operating costs.
Uniquely, it’s possible to perform detailed condition monitoring of the applications at the final circuit level, substantially increasing availability and operational reliability.
The large volume of measurement data enables the detection of irregularities and deviations and creates a reliable planning basis for preventive maintenance. The unit can be easily integrated into higher-level systems by using the open Modbus TCP standard.
SENTRON ECPD makes it possible to carry out remote diagnostics and remote switching during normal operation as well as in the event of a fault. This offers significant benefits, especially for remote applications without direct on-site support. In addition, it’s easier to localise and identify faults by differentiating the cause of the fault.
4. Sustainable
SENTRON ECPD combines multiple product functions in one device, is 90% lighter than the devices otherwise required and demands up to 80% less space in the distribution board, eliminating the need for costly structural measures.
Andreas Matthé, CEO of Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, said: “With this launch it’s now possible to benefit from several functionalities in one product and to activate them as required by the individual application or adapt them if needed. All of this, combined with solid-state switching technology enables up to a thousand times faster, wear-free switching.”
Visit the Siemens ECPD product information page here
Read more industry feature articles here
