Wind turbines for Asia-Pacific market must fulfill local conditions across the complete region - especially for the fast-growing Taiwanese offshore wind market. Those conditions are also relevant for the electrical systems and components installed in wind turbines like high-voltage gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). All of them must fulfill local codes and standards regarding 60 Hz operation, as well as operation in high and low ambient temperatures and in particular seismic activities.
Serving the growing Taiwanese offshore wind power market with our upgraded 8VM1 allows us at the same time to provide our customers an environmentally friendly, reliable, cost-efficient and resilient high-voltage GIS with a F-gas-free insulating medium.Dr. Ulf Katschinski, Head of the business unit Switching Products and Systems of Siemens Energy Transmission
8VM1 successfully tested for the highest qualification level
The 8VM1, as part of Siemens Energy’s Blue portfolio, was successfully type tested regarding shock and vibration requirements for transport and normal operation conditions according to IEC standards with the initial product release in 2017.
Within the upgrade project for APAC markets the 8VM1 was additionally type tested according to IEC 62271-207 standard for seismic qualification of GIS above 52 kV - to ensure a broad market fit across the region. The type test was performed according to the highest qualification level.
During this test the 8VM1 was moved on the shake table in such a way that it was subjected to conditions representative for a true earthquake ground motion. The GIS successfully passed the specified qualification level ‘high’ according to the IEC standard. During the test procedure, the unit withstood the performed seismic activity without sustaining any damage and without displaying any impaired functionality.
The 8VM1 underlines the environmentally friendly aspect of renewable energy
The 8VM1 from Siemens Energy has many benefits to offer. It is an innovative, compact switchgear which applies Zero Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) or any other fluorine gases as an insulating and interrupting medium. Instead of a greenhouse gas, it uses compressed synthetic air (so called clean air) to provide insulation between live parts and the earthed metal housing. For short-circuit and continuous current interruption, proven vacuum interrupter technology is used to achieve very reliable and long-term stable power switching functionality.
Its new earthquake qualification is just one more proof for a sustainable and reliable product. The resilient design makes it an indispensable product for wind turbines located in areas prone to earthquakes. On top of that, the 8VM1 underlines the environmentally friendly aspects of renewable energy.
Pretact
The Pretact® concept of Siemens Energy Transmission was introduced to maximize the resilience of modern power grids. It comprises a comprehensive set of modular features to prevent and protect transformers and high-voltage products better from operational issues as well against natural disasters or forced outages. In addition, highly flexible “mobile resilience units” provide a chance to react quickly in case of an emergency or planned maintenance.
UN sustainability goals
As a leader in innovations with comprehensive, connective and sustainable portfolio, Siemens Energy Transmission is supporting the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals number 3 “good health and well-being”, 7 “Affordable and clean energy”, 8 “Decent work and economic growth”, 9 “Industry, innovation and infrastructure", 11 “Sustainable cities and communities”, 14 “Life below water” and 15 "Living on land".
Siemens Energy Transmission
Transmission products play a vital role in the energy value chain. Siemens Energy Transmission offers all key elements including power transformers, gas-insulated and / or air-insulated switchgear and components, individually or bundled, with related engineering and service. Our global factory network and innovations help provide the highest level of quality and reliability to support our customers’ operational and environmental objectives.
