ILLINOIS - G&W Electric has announced the launch of the new high-voltage pole-top recloser up to 72.5 kV.

In a February 8 press conference, the company announced the innovation as the market's first high-voltage pole-top recloser. It supports faster overcurrent protection through fault isolation and automatic restoration for temporary faults on overhead sub-transmission lines.

"We are committed to partnering with utilities to identify vulnerabilities and deliver state-of-the-art solutions like the Viper-HV recloser for functionality right on the sub-transmission lines. Until today, that was only available by installing high-cost substations," said John Mueller, chairman and owner of G&W Electric.

The recloser was designed in collaboration with an unnamed northeastern utility.

The device is designed as a self-contained system that has capabilities of a recloser, CTs, and integrated internal voltage sensors. Utilities can use it to clear temporary faults and isolate only a section of the grid to protect additional lines from going down, the manufacturer said in a press release.

It can be configured in multiple ways, including phase-over-phase and cross-arm versions to match existing line infrastructure. G&W said the need for routine maintenance is reduced as the design does not include oil or gas, the vacuum interrupter and other energized parts are sealed within solid-dielectric insulation.

Originally planned for unveiling at the January DISTRIBUTECH International, G&W now plans to unveil the new product in April, since DISTRIBUTECH was postponed until May 23-25, 2022, reports POWERGRID International.

Source: G&W Electric; POWERGRID International