ABB launches digital switchgear solutions for U.S. microgrid management

Release Time：14 Mar,2017

2017-03-13 - ABB unveils innovative product portfolio for newly installed and existing switchgear at ABB Customer World 2017 event ABB CUSTOMER WORLD, HOUSTON, TEXAS, MARCH 13, 2017 - ABB is launching new low-voltage solutions for microgrid management in the United States that make it easier to upgrade any facility’s power network and improve control and connectivity. These new technologies will be on display for the first time at the ABB Customer World event in Houston, March 13-16. “These latest additions to ABB’s Emax 2 power circuit breakers show why we are the industry’s innovation leader,” said Franklin Sullivan, executive vice president Electrification Products division, United States. “Embedding digital technology in our solutions makes monitoring, controlling and managing resources simpler for our customers. For the many companies planning new installations, Emax 2 offers a smart way to reduce complexity.” The integration of Emax 2 air circuit breakers into the ABB ReliaGear® line brings new embedded functions, such as automatic transfer switching and fast-load shedding logic, which enable switchgear to manage the different power sources that make up a typical microgrid. These software-based solutions enable ABB ReliaGear to offer advanced protection, programmable logic, full connectivity, easy integration and comprehensive microgrid energy management, all embedded in one space- and time-saving device. “The Emax 2 is the all-in-one circuit breaker that makes ABB systems the smallest, most cost-effective low-voltage power distribution systems available,” said Sullivan. “It is easier to install and delivers the additional functionality that end users want by using a smarter, more intuitive interface.” ABB is also announcing the launch of Ekip UP at ABB Customer World 2017, a simple way to extend functionality to any kind of installation where a power circuit breaker is not suitable, or to give older facilities advanced monitoring, protection and control abilities. The plug-and-play, compact and multifunctional unit gives any low-voltage power distribution system standard and advanced microgrid technologies that are available with Emax 2 all-in-one solutions, with reduced impact on the original switchgear installation design. The ABB solution helps maximize uptime and efficiency, increases awareness of resources and process behaviors, and delivers a simpler, more intuitive user experience. “For end users who want to digitize their power distribution, this ingenious external unit is the answer,” added Sullivan. “Ekip UP can upgrade any microgrid switchgear, adding protection, connectivity and control capabilities.” The ABB Ability™ Electrical Distribution Control System, which connects ReliaGear installations with cloud-based ABB energy management software, is also being demonstrated for the first time in the U.S. market. It analyzes data gathered by the ReliaGear’s Emax 2 circuit breaker or Ekip UP unit, providing information and analysis to the facility manager’s smartphone, tablet or personal computer to enable better real-time decision-making.