| Ring main unit (RMU) | Compact medium-voltage switchgear used to connect, protect, and isolate sections of a distribution network, commonly in ring or radial arrangements. | Switching ways connect incoming and outgoing feeders; a transformer protection way controls and protects the transformer feeder. | Confirm network topology, rated voltage, fault level, installation environment, and utility requirements before specifying a unit. |
| Busbars and internal connections | Conductive paths, commonly copper or aluminium, that distribute power between functional units. | Carry normal load current and withstand specified short-time and peak currents when correctly rated. | Check continuous-current and short-circuit withstand ratings against the system study and installation conditions. |
| Load-break switch | Commonly used on ring feeder ways for switching normal load current; its short-circuit making capability depends on the design and rating. | Opens or closes the feeder under specified operating conditions. It is not a substitute for a circuit breaker where fault-current interruption is required. | Review the rated current, making capacity, switching duty, and the protection scheme for the connected feeder. |
| Vacuum circuit breaker | Used in many RMUs for circuit-breaker feeder or transformer protection functions. | Separating contacts create an arc in a vacuum interrupter; the arc is extinguished as current passes through zero. | Verify rated breaking current, operating sequence, relay compatibility, and the required maintenance regime. |
| Fuse-switch combination | A common transformer protection arrangement combining a switch with high-voltage current-limiting fuses. | A fuse interrupts sufficiently high fault current; the switch provides normal switching and, depending on design, may trip all phases after a fuse operates. | Select fuse ratings and characteristics to coordinate with transformer inrush, transformer protection, and upstream protection. |
| Earthing switch | Connects an isolated circuit section to earth for safe maintenance procedures. | When closed, it grounds the designated circuit section. Some designs provide a rated short-circuit making capacity. | Use the prescribed isolation, proving-dead, and earthing procedure; interlocks do not replace safe working practices. |
| Interlocks and operating mechanism | Mechanical and, where fitted, electrical devices that control access and switching sequences. | Prevent specified conflicting operations, such as closing an earthing switch while the associated circuit is in a prohibited state. | Check the interlock scheme, padlocking provisions, operating access, and maintenance instructions for the selected configuration. |
| Insulation system and enclosure | May use gas insulation, solid insulation, or air-insulated compartments, depending on the RMU design. | Insulation separates live parts from earth and between phases; enclosure design helps protect equipment and personnel. | Confirm insulation technology, pressure or condition monitoring needs where applicable, indoor/outdoor suitability, and required ingress protection. |
| Voltage rating | RMUs are available for various medium-voltage systems; equipment rated up to 36 kV is common in this product category. | The rated voltage and insulation levels define the electrical conditions the switchgear is designed to withstand. | Choose a rating suitable for the system’s highest voltage and applicable insulation requirements; availability varies by design and market. |
| Protection and indication | May include protection relays, current or voltage sensors, fault passage indicators, and voltage presence indication. | Sensors and relays detect defined electrical conditions and initiate a trip or indication according to the configured protection logic. | Coordinate settings and instrument interfaces with the network protection study; confirm auxiliary power and communications requirements. |
| Applicable standards | Relevant IEC standards may include IEC 62271-200 for AC metal-enclosed switchgear above 1 kV and up to 52 kV, with other IEC 62271 parts applicable to particular switching devices. | Standards specify requirements and test methods for equipment characteristics, operation, and verification. | Confirm the current applicable editions, local regulations, and project-specific testing and documentation requirements. |